Assessing the Effects of Renewable Energy on Household Expenditure: A Case Study of Munali Constituency

As the global demand for sustainable energy intensifies in response to climate change and energy insecurity, renewable energy has become a vital component of development strategies, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In sub-Saharan Africa, where a significant portion of the population remains either unconnected to the national grid or faces unreliable electricity access, the shift toward renewable energy is not just a matter of environmental sustainability but also of economic necessity. Zambia, despite its vast hydroelectric potential, faces challenges in energy distribution and affordability, particularly in low-income urban communities. Consequently, many households are exploring renewable alternatives such as solar power to meet their energy needs. This study assessed the effectiveness of household renewable energy adoption in reducing energy-related costs within the Munali community. Specifically, the study aimed to evaluate the effects of renewable energy adoption on household energy expenditure, examined the types of renewable energy sources adopted, identified socio-economic factors associated with renewable energy adoption, established the limitations households face in transitioning from traditional to renewable energy sources and evaluated the impact of adoption on household energy costs. The study embraced an exploratory case study design, employing a mixed method approach consisting of both qualitative and quantitative methods of gathering primary data. The study employed a simple random sampling approach to ensure that every household in Munali constituency has an equal chance of being selected. Data was collected through structured surveys and interviews, utilizing standardized questionnaires. Data entry and analysis was done using STATA. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and means, were used to summarize data. Chi-square was used to determine associations between variables. The study found that renewable energy adoption in Munali Constituency was influenced by socio-economic factors such as income levels, employment status, household size, and expenditure patterns, with unreliable ZESCO supply as the main driver. Solar was the most widely adopted source, mainly for lighting, with financing largely through household savings and limited subsidies. Adoption significantly reduced household energy expenditure, enabling savings for food security, education, healthcare, and assets, though challenges of high upfront costs, limited technical support, poor product accessibility, and maintenance issues persisted. Despite these barriers, most households expressed strong willingness to fully transition if affordability, accessibility, and technical assistance were improved. The study recommends enhancing affordability of renewable energy through subsidies, low-interest loans, and flexible payment schemes while strengthening technical support by training local technicians and establishing service centers. Improving product accessibility through local manufacturing and stronger distribution networks, coupled with awareness campaigns and demonstration projects, can address knowledge gaps. Policies should encourage diverse use of renewable energy beyond lighting, supported by public–private partnerships to expand access through innovative financing models. Finally, clear regulatory frameworks and quality standards are needed to promote trust, affordability, and sustainable adoption.