A Multi-Stakeholder Governance Model for Decentralized Energy Access in Rural Communities

Authors

  • Mohammed Lawal Giwah  Kwara State Government - Ilorin, Nigeria
  • Zamathula Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu  Independent Researcher, Durban, South Africa
  • Emmanuel Augustine Etukudoh  Independent Researcher, Nigeria
  • Ebimor Yinka Gbabo  Rolls Royce SMR. UK

Keywords:

Decentralized Energy Access, Multi-Stakeholder Governance, Rural Electrification, Institutional Coordination, Participatory Energy Systems, Energy Policy and Regulation

Abstract

Decentralized energy systems are increasingly recognized as a viable solution for extending electricity access to rural communities underserved by traditional grid infrastructure. However, their sustainability and scalability are often compromised by fragmented governance, limited community participation, and weak institutional coordination. This paper proposes a comprehensive multi-stakeholder governance model tailored to the complexities of decentralized energy delivery in rural contexts. Grounded in governance theory and stakeholder analysis, the model emphasizes five core principles: inclusivity, transparency, accountability, subsidiarity, and resilience. It clearly delineates the roles of government actors, private sector players, communities, and non-governmental organizations, and establishes mechanisms for collaborative decision-making, financial alignment, and adaptive oversight. The paper also explores policy and implementation considerations, including regulatory harmonization, blended financing strategies, and capacity building for local stakeholders. By addressing the institutional gaps that hinder rural electrification efforts, the proposed model contributes both theoretically to energy governance literature and practically to policy design and implementation. It offers a scalable, equitable framework that embeds trust, coordination, and long-term sustainability into decentralized energy transitions.

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IInternational Journal of Scientific Research in Computer Science, Engineering and Information Technology

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Published

2023-04-30

Issue

Volume 9, Issue 2, March-April-2023

Section

Research Articles

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How to Cite

[1]
Mohammed Lawal Giwah, Zamathula Sikhakhane Nwokediegwu, Emmanuel Augustine Etukudoh, Ebimor Yinka Gbabo, " A Multi-Stakeholder Governance Model for Decentralized Energy Access in Rural Communities" International Journal of Scientific Research in Computer Science, Engineering and Information Technology(IJSRCSEIT), ISSN : 2456-3307, Volume 9, Issue 2, pp.852-862, March-April-2023.