This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of the social and economic effects of solar mini-grids in rural African settings, specifically in Kenya and Nigeria. A group of 2,658 household heads and business owners connected to mini-grids over the last five years were interviewed both before and one year after their connection. These interviews focused on changes in gender equality, productivity, health, safety, and economic activity. The results show notable improvements in all areas. Economic activities and productivity increased significantly among the connected households and businesses. The median income of rural Kenyan community members quadrupled. Gender equality also improved, with women gaining more opportunities in decision making and business. Health and safety enhancements were linked to reduced use of hazardous energy sources like kerosene lamps. The introduction of solar mini-grids not only transformed the energy landscape but also led to broad socioeconomic benefits in these rural areas. The research highlights the substantial impact of decentralized renewable energy on the social and economic development of rural African communities. Its findings are crucial for policymakers, development agencies, and stakeholders focused on promoting sustainable energy and development in Africa.

翻译：本研究首次对非洲农村环境中太阳能微电网的社会经济效益进行了全面分析，特别聚焦于肯尼亚和尼日利亚。我们对过去五年内接入微电网的2658户家庭户主及企业主进行了访谈，分别在接入前和接入一年后展开调研。访谈内容聚焦于性别平等、生产力、健康、安全及经济活动等方面的变化。结果显示，所有领域均出现显著改善。接入微电网的家庭和企业的经济活动与生产力大幅提升，肯尼亚农村社区成员的中位收入增长了四倍。性别平等状况也有所改善，女性在决策和商业活动中获得了更多机会。健康与安全方面的提升与减少使用煤油灯等危险能源来源相关联。太阳能微电网的引入不仅改变了能源格局，还为这些农村地区带来了广泛的社会经济效益。该研究强调了分布式可再生能源对非洲农村社区社会经济发展的重大影响，其发现对致力于推动非洲可持续能源与发展的政策制定者、发展机构及利益相关方至关重要。