Analyzing Socioeconomic Effects of Renewable Energy on Business and Household in Rwanda: A Case Study of Rubona Sector, Rwamagana Distict, Eastern Province, Rwanda

This paper examined the socioeconomic effects of renewable energy on businesses and households in Rwanda, focusing on the Rubona Sector of Rwamagana District. As the country increasingly relies on renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, this research aimed to assess the impacts on local communities. The study was titled Analysing Socioeconomic Effects of Renewable Energy on Business and Household in Rwanda: A Case Study of Rubona Sector, Rwamagana District in Eastern Province. The primary objectives of this research include evaluating the impact of renewable energy on business operations and household well-being, investigating the relationship between renewable energy utilization and socioeconomic status, and identifying the challenges and opportunities associated with renewable energy adoption. Despite government efforts to promote renewable energy, gaps remain in understanding its socioeconomic impacts on rural communities. Many households still depend heavily on traditional energy sources, contributing to environmental degradation and health issues. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study combines quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. Data was collected from 395 respondents through structured questionnaires and interviews with sector leaders and employees of the Rwamagana Solar Panel Plant. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS to evaluate relationships between variables. Findings reveal a strong positive correlation (Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.988) between renewable energy adoption and improvements in business and household outcomes. Key results include a mean score of 3.34 for employment opportunities created by renewable energy projects, a mean score of 3.31 for social inclusion improvements, and a mean score of 3.34 reflecting health benefits, specifically a reduction in respiratory diseases due to cleaner energy sources. To enhance the positive impacts of renewable energy, the study recommends expanding renewable energy infrastructure to improve accessibility for more households and businesses, implementing supportive government policies like financial incentives, conducting capacity-building programs to raise awareness about renewable energy benefits, and fostering partnerships with the private sector to encourage investment in renewable energy initiatives. Keyword: Renewable Energy, Socioeconomic Effects, Solar Panel Plant, Capacity-Building ProgramsTop of Form