Title:
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Solar home systems: insights from developing countries of the world: a literature survey of current issues and topics
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Author(s):
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Published by:
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Publication date:
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ECN
Policy Studies
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1-8-1999
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ECN report number:
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Document type:
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ECN-I--99-005
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ECN publication
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Number of pages:
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Full text:
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42
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Download PDF
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Abstract:
The study presents an overview of the main issues discussed and topics inregards and with relevance to Solar Home Systems. The main issues are grouped
and discussed in five topics: financing, institutional arrangements, market
opportunities, information and communication, and standards and quality
control. Major challenges as far as projects are concerned, whether public or
private, are highlighted, in particular regarding aspects of financing and
institutional mechanisms. The up-front costs make Solar Home Systems out of
reach for the greater number of people who need them most. On the other hand,
sourcing private finance for renewable energy technologies in general, and
Solar Home Systems in particular, has often been very difficult because of
the perceived risks. Even if these funds would be available, weak
institutional links often undermine project success. However, a handful of
success stories exist today and could possibly be replicated elsewhere in the
developing world. The subject of information dissemination needs to be
revisited and clearly set in perspective. Several countries and organisations
have now developed standards and technical norms, but universality and
applicability are issues still at hands. 61 refs.
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