Alternative Solution to the Darkness: Opportunities and Challenges of Renewable Energy Technology for Non-electrified Farming Communities

Purpose: This paper analyses the opportunities and challenges for using renewable energy technologies by non-electrified farming communities within the context of sustainable development. Design/Methodology/Approach: A mixed research approach is employed in this study. Using Stata version 15, Chi-square analyses were conducted for the estimations, while content analysis was carried out for the qualitative aspect of the study. The study covered five districts of the Eastern Region. Findings: Preliminary findings indicate that several dimensions of sustainable development are tied to access to renewable sources of energy such as livelihood opportunities, improvement in well-being, efficient use of natural resources, and increase in income. However, the challenges of maintenance of renewable energy products serves as a set-back to the full realisation of the benefits. Implications/Research Limitation: The study has implications for the dissemination of knowledge on renewable energy resources. It also directs policy on the achievement of energy security and SDG 7. Practical Implication: The study has implications for the sustainable adoption of renewable energy technology. Considerations of spare parts fabrication and repair of devices need to be factored in policy. The study also has implications for scaling up the production of renewable energy products in rural communities. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature on renewable energy resources and provides empirical evidence on the opportunities, benefits and challenges of renewable energy resources for non-electrified farming communities.