Eleventh International Conference on Climate Change: Impacts & Responses

Abstract

Even though Botswana has experienced exceptional economic growth in recent years, there is still limited access to modern energy services in rural areas. For instance, electrification rate in rural areas is standing at only 54% in Botswana. Rural communities rely mostly biomass fuels whose availability has reduced due to deforestation as a result of population growth. The problem is further compounded by climate change related issues in the energy sector. However, there is still lack of scholarly research on energy poverty among rural communities where climate change is already posing serious challenges. The study seeks to analyze determinants of energy poverty, household responses as well as willingness to use energy efficient measures. This study employs a household survey to assess 100 households in the Kweneng West District of Botswana among the Bakgalagadi. Data is obtained from 15 households per village in four villages in the district. Results are expected to show household’s energy uses and how they are obtained, challenges on energy supply, coping strategies and their effectiveness as well as willingness to adopt energy efficient measures. The study is expected to provide a better understanding of the covert impacts of climate change on fuel scarcity directly or as a stress multiplier. It will also bring to light the needs of rural communities with regard to household energy needs to recommend improved measures that can strengthen the capacity of rural communities to adapt to energy poverty and mitigate climate change impacts