Hybrid renewable energy systems for rural electrification in developing countries: Assessing feasibility, efficiency, and socioeconomic impact

In many developing countries, access to electricity remains a critical barrier to socioeconomic development, especially in rural and remote regions where grid expansion is challenging and costly. Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (HRES), which combine multiple renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, biomass, and small hydro, have emerged as viable alternatives to traditional grid-based solutions for rural electrification. This review paper provides a comprehensive assessment of the feasibility, efficiency, and socioeconomic impacts of HRES implementations in rural areas of developing countries. We examine key components of HRES, including energy generation, storage, and system optimization, and highlight the technical and economic considerations that influence their deployment. Furthermore, we explore the socioeconomic benefits of HRES, such as job creation, improved health and educational outcomes, and enhanced economic resilience, which make them an attractive option for sustainable development. However, we also address the challenges limiting HRES adoption, such as high initial costs, limited technical expertise, and inadequate policy frameworks. Our findings underscore that, while HRES present significant potential to transform rural energy landscapes, realizing this potential requires targeted policy interventions, financial support mechanisms, community engagement, and continuous technical innovation. By synthesizing current research and case studies, this paper aims to offer insights for policymakers, developers, and stakeholders on how to effectively design and implement HRES to meet the unique energy demands of rural communities in developing countries, paving the way for inclusive and sustainable energy access.