Energy, poverty, and gender - rural electrification in Indonesia and Sri Lanka: from social analysis to reform of the power sector

This report focuses on two determinant aspects of electrification with regard to poverty and gender: (a) the benefits realized by rural households and by communities as a whole, with special emphasis on the poor and women, and (b) the conditions of access to electrification for all, including the poorest of society. The chapter 2 analyzes the conditions of rural electrification in industrial countries. Chapter 3 gives a global scope on the situation of electrification, poverty, and gender in Indonesia and Sri Lanka. Chapter 4 describes the conclusions of this first qualitative phase and enhances what appears to be the key aspects for respondents. Chapter 5 describes the significant changes that are introduced into family routines due to the arrival of electricity. Chapter 6 deals with the benefits associated with the value of the home. Chapter 7 deals with the benefits of positivism and investments. Chapter 8 points out that in spite of their significant efforts, national utilities face misunderstanding and bad perception on the part of the population about the electrification process. Chapter 9 suggests that even fair application of theoretically equitable present rules result in inequity and poor exclusion. Chapter 10 cover knitting electricity. Chapter 11 discusses renewables.