Clean Energy Transition and Rural Health: Assessing the Impact of Solar Energy on Indoor Air Pollution and Well-Being in Khandwa District, M.P

Access to reliable and clean energy remains a critical challenge in rural regions of developing countries, including India. A large proportion of rural households still depend on traditional fuels such as firewood, kerosene, and biomass for lighting and household energy needs. These conventional energy sources contribute to environmental degradation and expose households to harmful indoor air pollution, leading to various health risks. In this context, solar energy has emerged as a sustainable and decentralized solution to address energy poverty, reduce environmental impacts, and improve the overall quality of life in rural communities. This study examines the socio-economic and health impacts of solar energy adoption among rural households in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, India. The research is based on primary data collected from approximately 300 respondents across 20 villages through structured household surveys. The study employs both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including mean analysis, frequency distribution, paired t-tests, and ANOVA, to evaluate the influence of solar energy adoption on household energy consumption patterns, income opportunities, educational outcomes, and health conditions.