Assessing the Sustainability of Solar-Powered Stoves for Clean Energy Accessibility in the Global South

Sustainability and feasibility of solar-powered cooking stove technology, as a clean energy solution, for the low-income and rural communities in the Global South were discussed in this review research. A critical study of existing solar cooking technologies was carried out based on affordability, cultural adaptability, environmental sustainability, and system efficiency. This review is novel in that it integrates the discussion of socio technical challenges and the design innovations of solar cookers. Hybrid models, thermal energy storage and smart solar tracker systems as strategies for enhancing energy accessibility were discussed in the study. Data sources include secondary sources from peer-reviewed journal articles, feasibility studies and international case reports. Key findings, however, reveal that solar stoves substantially lower dependence on biomass, and lead to positive healthy living. However, costs, weather dependence, and cultural misalignment lay obstacles to the widespread adoption of such technologies. Locally manufactured, modular and thermally efficient stoves are recommended for the development of more sustainable and affordable, widely accepted and environmentally friendly solar cookers. Supportive policies, public awareness campaigns and training initiatives to boost the adoption of solar-powered cookers were recommended in the study too. Taking its cue from research carried out across the Global South, it concludes that solar cooking systems are worth adopting, as they can foster universal reliance on clean energy, and provide a speedy developmental pathway to renewable energy technologies for the energy-poor regions provided the right mix of tailored innovations and institutional support are provided.