Energy management framework for low-income schools in developing regions
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive framework designed to optimise energy management in low-income schools in developing regions, specifically despite limited resources, lack of technical skills, unreliability, and illiteracy in energy. Taking advantage of South Africa’s unique energy landscape, the framework integrates renewable energy solutions, low-cost efficiency measures, and sociotechnical approaches to enhance energy efficiency while promoting sustainability. By combining global best practices with localised socio-economic insights, the study develops a flexible and scalable energy management strategy. This framework prioritises data-driven methods, stakeholder collaboration, and incremental implementation, ensuring contextual adaptability. The proposed model highlights cost reduction, energy efficiency, energy reliability, and behavioural optimisation, offering actionable pathways to empower educational institutions while addressing systemic energy inefficiencies. The framework is grounded in qualitative and quantitative analyses, allowing schools to transition to sustainable energy practices, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and foster energy literacy among students and staff. This proposed framework can significantly contribute to reducing energy costs, reducing carbon emissions, and raising awareness and knowledge about sustainable energy practices in educational settings in developing regions.
Source: Energy Strategy Reviews
Authors: T. Michael-Ahile, J.A. Samuels, M.J. Booysen
Institutions: Stellenbosch University, Uganda Christian University
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,180
OpenAlex ID: W7088449993