COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND DESIGN

Silliman University, Dumaguete City

IMPORTANCE OF INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUILDING FOR SUCCESSFUL SOLAR

IMPLEMENTATION: A CASE STUDY IN THE PHILIPPINES

A Case Study Report

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for

EE 44 A - Special Studies in Renewable Energy Resources

Prepared by:

Villanezo, Van Beethoven S.

Submitted to:

Dr. Maria Lorena L. Tuballa

Instructor
 March 02, 2023

INTRODUCTION

The paper aims to determine the effectiveness of training system

technicians and end-users of Solar Home System (SHS) technology to a much

successful rural electrification. It also points out the certain factors that needs to

address properly on this technology operation in aspects like; lack of information

on user experience, the importance of training program of Solar Home System

(SHS), project preparation, community assessments and non-technical training.

DESCRIPTION

Solar home systems are becoming increasingly popular in rural areas as a

means of electrification, especially in off-grid areas. However, without adequate

information, users may not know how to safely use the solar home system. This

can might lead to electrical shocks, fires, and other safety concerns, which can be

particularly problematic in rural areas where medical help may be limited or

inaccessible.
 In addition, the implementation of training programs are critical for the

successful adoption and use of solar home systems in rural electrification. These

programs help users understand the technical aspects of the solar home systems,

such as how to properly install and maintain the solar panels and batteries. This

knowledge is essential for ensuring the system operates at its optimal capacity,

which can improve energy efficiency and reduce the need for frequent repairs.

Moreover, project preparation is also crucial for the successful application

of solar home systems in rural electrification. Effective project preparation

involves careful planning, stakeholder engagement, and the development of clear

objectives and strategies.

Furthermore, proper community assessment is also a big factor. They

provide policymakers and project developers with a comprehensive

understanding of the community's needs, identify socio-economic factors that

may influence the success of the project, engage stakeholders, and ensure the

long-term sustainability of the project.

Lastly, non-technical training programs are essential to the success of rural

electrification projects through solar home systems as well. They enhance user
knowledge, ensure safety, promote community participation, and encourage local

entrepreneurship.

DISCUSSION

Providing adequate information, training programs, project preparation,

community assessments, and non-technical training to users of solar home

systems in rural areas is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of

these systems (Solar Homes System). Several studies have concluded that training

programs focused on technical and non-technical skills are essential for increasing

adoption rates and ensuring the long-term sustainability of solar home systems.

For example, a study published in the International Journal of Renewable

Energy Research in 2016, evaluated the impact of training programs on the

adoption of solar home systems in rural communities. The study found that

training programs that focus on both technical and non-technical skills are

essential for increasing adoption rates and ensuring the long-term sustainability

of solar home systems.

 Another study, published in the Journal of Energy and Development in

2016, emphasized the importance of non-technical skills such as financial

management and marketing for users in rural communities who may lack access

to traditional business and financial resources. The study also found that users

were more likely to adopt solar home systems, if they received information about

the systems from trusted sources within their community.

In addition to comprehensive training programs, conducting community

assessments and involving local stakeholders in decision-making processes, can

also lead to increased adoption rates and improved sustainability of solar home

systems. By involving the community, the project can be designed to meet the

specific needs of the target population, leading to improved effectiveness and

sustainability. Project preparation is also important, as conducting a thorough

analysis of local needs and resources, which meets the specific needs of the target

population.

Other studies have highlighted the importance of community involvement,

and participation in rural electrification projects. For instance, a review of rural

electrification projects in developing countries found that community

involvement and ownership of the project, effective communication and

information dissemination, and the involvement of local leaders and organizations

are essential for successful outcomes. Additionally, involving local communities in

the design and implementation of training programs and non-technical training

can lead to more effective and sustainable outcomes, as demonstrated by studies

in Uganda and India

Overall, the evidence suggests that taking a comprehensive approach that

includes adequate information, training programs, project preparation,

community assessments, and non-technical training is essential for ensuring the

effectiveness and sustainability of solar home systems in rural electrification. By

providing reliable and sustainable sources of electricity to those living in rural

areas, solar home systems can be effectively help to address the energy poverty

experienced by many communities especially remote areas around the world.

CONCLUSION/RECOMMENDATION

Based on findings discussed above, in order to effectively implement a

much successful solar home system in rural electrification, it is important to

involve local communities in the planning and implementation process, and to

incorporate training programs, to address specific knowledge gaps and build trust

in the technology. Non-technical training in areas such as financial management

and entrepreneurship can also be beneficial in promoting sustainable business

models and increasing income generation for users. Furthermore, community

involvement and participation are critical for successful outcomes in rural

electrification projects. This can be achieved through effective communication

and information dissemination, involvement of local leaders and organizations.

Overall, in order to ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of

solar home systems in rural electrification projects, it is important to take a

holistic approach that involves the community in all aspects of the project, and

provides comprehensive information and training programs.

REFERENCES:

J. Munda, P. Anand, and M. Kandpal, "Promotion of Solar Home Systems through

Micro-Finance in India: A Review," International Journal of Renewable Energy
Research, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 515-526, 2016
https://www.ijrer.org/ijrer/index.php/ijrer/index
S. Haq, T. H. Bashir, and S. S. Ahmad, "Socio-Technical Barriers to Solar Home
System (SHS) Adoption in Pakistan," Sustainability, vol. 10, no. 8, p. 2869, 2018
https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/10/8/2869
J. W. Gichuki, M. J. Wamukonya, and S. K. Mbugua, "Sustainable Market for Solar
Home Systems in Rural Kenya: A Case of Community Based Organizations in Embu
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822-831, 2015
https://www.ijrer.org/ijrer/index.php/ijrer/article/view/1279

A. M. Saleem, Y. Li, and M. K. Khan, "Factors Affecting the Adoption of Solar Home
Lighting Systems in Rural Areas: A Case Study of Bahawalpur, Pakistan,"
Sustainability, vol. 8, no. 12, p. 1340, 2016
https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/8/12/1340

"Entrepreneurship and innovation in solar home system programs in Uganda" by

Lema et al. (2017) -
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211467X16300846