Developing a framework for rural electrification in India- Analysis of the prospects of micro-grid solutions

Abstract

The present research examines the perceptions of rural consumers towards the microgrid and rural electrification (RE) based solutions and develops a framework for improving the establishment of rural RE based microgrid solution captured from a case study in the Kalimpong district of North Bengal. The study adopted a mixed methodology study design includes the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the study through stakeholder interviews and questionnaire-based primary survey of the sample households. The perceptions received from sample households were validated with the response from other stakeholders, including academicians, researchers and sectoral experts. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM). The findings of the present research indicate that to accelerate the socioeconomic development of the hilly terrains of North Bengal region, multi-provider licensed based microgrid preferably with renewable-based is a preferred mode which ensures reliable and affordable access of electricity.