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Social Networks and Household Electricity Reliability: Evidence From Africa's Household Survey

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  • Hong Zhang
  • Helian Xu
  • Yuping Deng

Abstract

Reliable electricity is crucial for enhancing household living conditions and ensuring sustainable national development. Social networks, which influence household behavioral decisions, significantly contribute to the acquisition and reliability of household electricity. Based on data from rounds 3–8 of the Afrobarometer, this study investigated the influence of social networks on household electricity reliability in African countries. The results revealed that social networks markedly improved household electricity reliability. The analysis further identifies that these improvement effects are achieved through increasing employment opportunities, improving living conditions, and a greater willingness to participate in collective action. Moreover, social networks have a stronger influence than main grid supplies on the reliability of alternative electricity sources, with a notably higher impact coefficient in the North African region than elsewhere. The positive effects of social networks on electricity reliability are also more pronounced among those who have informal rather than formal education. These findings suggest that policies aimed at bolstering social networks should be implemented to promote household electricity reliability.

Suggested Citation

  • Hong Zhang & Helian Xu & Yuping Deng, 2025. "Social Networks and Household Electricity Reliability: Evidence From Africa's Household Survey," Review of Development Economics, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 29(4), pages 2144-2156, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:rdevec:v:29:y:2025:i:4:p:2144-2156
    DOI: 10.1111/rode.13208
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