The contribution of Ha Ramarothole solar plant project to the economic development of local communities

Abstract

Research has shown that energy and development are two interdependent concepts. Globally scholars have conducted studies where they studied the relationship between the renewable energy use and the growth of the economy. It was found that renewable energy has a great influence on economic development. Against this background, the research aims to assess the contribution of renewable energy project in particular solar energy project in Haramarothole to the local communities. The study used qualitative methodology in the form of case study where in-depth interviews were used. The study established that the establishment of solar project in Haramarothole has led to creation of jobs, infrastructure development and establishment of income generating activities. The study concludes that, Haramarothole solar plant project contributed to the economic development of the local communities through various economic activities and this has boosted the economic development of local businesses and also this has led to the local community being economically independent. The study recommends that in order to improve or enhance the economy of local communities, local communities should be encouraged to use solar energy as their source energy since it is cheap and affordable