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Why is there low grid electricity access in rural Uganda? Evidence from the Uganda National Household Survey

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  • Murungi, Herbert
  • Kiiza, Nelson
  • Nkurunziza, Gideon
  • Ssennono, Vincent Fred
  • Aarakit, Sylvia Manjeri

Abstract

•Electricity access supports SDGs 3,7,13; reduces wood fuel use; improves health, especially for women and children.•Despite free connection policies, only ∼9.1% of Uganda’s rural households have grid electricity access.•High initial grid costs and unreliable supply significantly limit rural household electricity access.•Higher education and income strongly correlate with rural households’ ability to afford grid electricity.•Study recommends reducing fees, improving grid reliability, and integrating socio-economic support programs.

Suggested Citation

  • Murungi, Herbert & Kiiza, Nelson & Nkurunziza, Gideon & Ssennono, Vincent Fred & Aarakit, Sylvia Manjeri, 2025. "Why is there low grid electricity access in rural Uganda? Evidence from the Uganda National Household Survey," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 203(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:enepol:v:203:y:2025:i:c:s0301421525001594
    DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2025.114652
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    References listed on IDEAS

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