Socioeconomic factors determining the use of energy sources for cooking and lighting in rural areas most vulnerable to climate change in Benin

Abstract

The study examined the factors influencing the energy sources selection in rural areas among Malanville, Natitingou, Tchaourou, Lokossa and Kétou communes in Benin. Through a random selection process, 544 households were surveyed using individual questionnaires and focus group interviews. The multinomial logit model was applied for lighting and was also used to determine the factors influencing the choice of the following energy sources. Socioeconomic characteristics, including age, gender, education, language proficiency, income, group membership, secondary occupation, electricity access, and location, were analyzed. But the binary logit was applied for cooking. Results indicated that energy choices were influenced by age, gender, education, language proficiency, income, credit access, social group membership, secondary occupation, accessibility, modern vehicles, household appliances and communication technologies and location. Recommendations include -i-expanding electrification in unelectrified villages, -ii- supporting women in alternative income activities, and -iii- ensuring access to diverse energy sources for cooking and electrification in rural households, promoting adoption.