Enabling policy framework for rural energy access in India
Student name: Ms Astha Gupta
Guide: Dr V V N Kishore
Year of completion: 2013
Host Organisation: Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation, New Delhi
Supervisor (Host Organisation): Mr Deepak Gupta
Abstract: Rural energy access is means to achieve two dependent goals of the nation; Energy security and Rural
Development. Reaching universal access to modern forms of energy within few years needs robust
strategies, policies and measures integrated in long-term national programs with clear targets,
dedicated and guaranteed funds, and an adequate institutional framework.
The study focuses on developing an overarching enabling policy framework for rural energy access
with the aim to provide electricity and non-electricity services to the rural population in a holistic
form, because mostly isolated solutions are not effective in case of development sector.
Initially, electricity and cooking programmes under MOP and MNRE are studied in detail. Central
plans which aimed at providing “total energy services†to rural population; IREP and VESP were also
analysed, as clear diagnosis ensures good sound policies and strategies.
Further, solutions are proposed after thorough literature review and interaction with experts in the
sector. The research implied that the current supply-side approaches for technology dissemination
doesn’t enhance energy access instead a solid knowledge of the energy services of the target
population is a crucial prerequisite to identifying the right response with energy source and
technology.
Energy policies would need to work in concert with economic development policies by harnessing the
collective efforts and investment potential of markets, central governments, state governments,
cooperatives, and local organizations. Administration of subsidies has to be smart and targeted at the
base of the pyramid. Capacity building and skill development will ensure employment generation. An
intense information network is the prerequisite for enhancing rural energy access. Sustainability of
energy requires innovation, appropriate standardization and testing measures with emphasis on
continuous monitoring and reviewing of actions.
Energy access should be a means to affordable, reliable and clean energy in quality and quantity, also
ensuring inclusion of excluded population in decision making and implementation.
Keywords- Rural energy access, policy framework, integrated approach, sustainability of energy,
smart subsidies, market development
