Access to reliable and sustainable electricity remains a persistent challenge in many rural and remote regions of India. Despite near-universal grid connectivity, actual energy access is often unreliable or unaffordable (Dey et al., 2024). This poster explores decentralized solar microgrids as a potential solution—drawing inspiration from Bangladesh’s Solar Home System (SHS) program, which electrified over 4 million households through off-grid solar technology (Saim & Khan, 2021). The initiative, supported by IDCOL, exemplifies how targeted policy and local implementation can overcome geographic and infrastructural barriers.
The project aims to assess where and how similar models could be implemented in India, especially in underserved regions where grid extension is infeasible or inefficient. Using spatial and socio-economic data, this work will identify zones of low electrification and high solar potential, and analyze the cost-benefit trade-offs of decentralized solar systems in these areas. The project also draws on systemic and participatory frameworks to understand the institutional and community-level dynamics necessary for successful implementation (Dey et al., 2024).
By combining spatial analysis, case studies, and policy insights, this poster argues that community-led solar microgrids can offer not just energy access, but a transformative pathway toward climate-resilient rural futures.
Dear Gokul, great, super relevant topic, literature quoted, but to me, it reads very abstract concerning what exactly you want to do: Using spatial and socio-economic data, this work will identify zones of low electrification and high solar potential, and analyze the cost-benefit trade-offs of decentralized solar systems in these areas. <- reformulate in a precise way: which data is used for what (and think about: where will you get the data). If I were you, I would look for a specific narrowly defined case (area, community) where you have data and perhaps also a relatec empirical study. Theory/Concepts also needs to be reformulated in a much more precise way: "The project also draws on systemic and participatory frameworks to understand the institutional and community-level dynamics necessary for successful implementation (Dey et al., 2024)." Which model/theory/framework saying what and how will you apply it and for what purpose? Narrow down and be very precise, what aspect you explore and how which theory/concept applies. So: great idea, but limit it more, so that you can deliver on the promises you are making 🙂
The topic is fitting. References are cited in the text, but not listed — hence, I am unable to assess their relevance. Also, small point, make sure to spell out abbreviations. More fundamental, the description of the poster does not yet make clear which exact question will be addressed. The abstract states “This poster explores decentralized solar microgrids as a potential solution” — but along which dimensions? And also, based on which information? The further abstracts sounds like you might like t put in substantial analysis work, which I think would have to be — given the limited time available — have to be quite focused. In short, make sure to design the structure/storyline of the poster carefully.