Energy security and informal entrepreneurship in low-income urban economies from a gender perspective

Abstract

Energy insecurity is a persistent yet insufficiently examined barrier to sustainable informal entrepreneurship in African cities. In Namibia, informal women entrepreneurs in low-income settlements face limited electricity connections, high tariffs, and frequent power interruptions, which compromise business viability and household welfare. This study examines the state of energy security among entrepreneurs and explores how energy sources, costs, and reliability influence daily business practices. An interpretivist approach and exploratory qualitative design were employed, using in-depth interviews with 12 women operating electricity-dependent enterprises for at least ten years, including salons, street food vending, frozen meat trading, bakeries, tailoring, and home-based catering. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed a reliance on multiple energy sources, including grid coal-generated electricity, liquefied petroleum gas, generators, biomass, solar systems, and batteries, with decisions shaped by affordability and perceived reliability. Grid supply remains the primary source; however, outages, voltage fluctuations, and unauthorized connections disrupt operations and escalate costs. Alternative sources offer temporary relief but introduce health, safety, and environmental risks. Energy disruptions reduce operating hours, spoil perishable goods, and create income instability. The participants highlighted the need for affordable solar technologies, accessible finance, technical training, and policy inclusion in the informal sector. Strengthening energy security is vital for inclusive urban development, gender-responsive energy planning, and progress toward Sustainable Development Goals.