Summary and Conclusions

Abstract

This chapter provides a final synthesis of the outcome of the book and presents the concluding remarks. The slow progress of electricity access and the developmental consequences of lack of access to electricity clearly highlight the need for sustaining concerted global efforts to ensure a better future. The different chapters of this book captured the efforts and experiences in electrification with an emphasis on off-grid electrification systems. The main message that comes out from these experiences is that sporadic efforts are not sufficient to improve the situation and that a strong state initiative in terms proper planning, program design, financial support and institutional arrangements is essential for any successful outcome. Although the grid extension remains the preferred mode of delivery of electricity access, in reality grid is unlikely to reach many areas in the near future where decentralized off-grid solutions will play an important role. Despite tremendous technological improvements and availability of alternative options, the focus of off-grid solutions has remained restricted to sale of simple products that cater to a limited range of individual needs, with a limited attention going towards local grid-based services for productive and household needs. Thus a step change in the delivery of decentralised solutions is required to create a better niche for these options. This also requires a proper integration of local resources in hybrid technology combinations to ensure adequate, reliable and affordable supply. However, the financial, regulatory and governance challenges remain strong and often under-estimated. Mobilising financial resources for enhanced electricity access and ensuring conducive business environment through an appropriate regulatory governance arrangement would require significant attention in the future. Similarly, the desirable business model from a variety of participatory approaches available for the service delivery has to be found that best suits the local condition. These also highlight the need for significant capacity building efforts in rural electricity supply.