Sustainable Energy Provision at the Bottom of the Pyramid: Blueprint for Early Repurposing Business Models Using Second‐Life Batteries

ABSTRACT This study presents a blueprint for an early‐stage business model focused on repurposing second‐life electric vehicle (EV) batteries for solar‐energy storage in Bottom of the Pyramid (BoP) markets. Addressing the critical need for affordable and sustainable energy solutions there, the research integrates principles of strategic and innovation management, international management at the BoP, and management for the circular economy. The proposed framework of an early repurposing business model highlights four key design themes: novelty, efficiency, complementarity, and lock‐in, tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities in these markets. A case study on two remote villages in the Brazilian Amazon deepens our blueprint for an early repurposing business model at the BoP.