Mobile Technologies, Digital Financing and Access to Solar Energy in Uganda

Abstract

This study sought to examine the factors that contribute to solar energy access in Uganda. The study examined the relationships between Mobile Technologies, Digital Financing, and access to solar energy in Uganda. The researchers used a cross-sectional quantitative survey design to analyse the relationships between the variables. The study was undertaken in Mbale District; owing to the fact that it has the highest population in Eastern Uganda, and one of the highest up take of mobile phone-enabled micro-solar systems (2-20W and less). A population of 50,000 respondents, comprising of active subscribers of MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money micro-solar systems was studied.  A sample size of 384 respondents was selected using the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) table. A structured questionnaire was administered to respondents who included subscribers of micro-solar systems in the area of study. 270 usable questionnaires were collected from the field giving a response rate of .703 (70%). Data was analysed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS. The coefficients of correlation, regression, and exploratory factor analysis were used to analyse the findings. Data from the study indicated strong positive relationships between Mobile ICTs, Digital Financing, and Access to Solar Energy. Other factors that were found to be significant in accessing solar energy in Mbale- Uganda included occupation, gender, age, and the respondents’ highest level of education. The researchers recommend stronger partnerships between Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), and micro-solar service providers like ReadyPay Solar and M-Kopa, to ensure higher levels of uptake of solar services in the country.