Chapter 17 A Holistic Framework for Resilient Rural Energy for Developing Economies

Purpose : The availability of resilient energy infrastructure and services is crucial to achieving sustainable development goals. However, defined and trustworthy definitions of resilience exist solely for engineering and energy systems, particularly in the industrialised world or metropolitan systems. However, no universally accepted definition considers the distinctive characteristics of rural regions in developing economies. To define resilience for rural power systems in developing countries, this chapter synthesises many perspectives on resilience, energy systems, and rural environments. Methodology : It draws on extensive literature assessments on resilience, particularly concerning energy systems and rural areas, as well as other pre-existing frameworks. Findings : To account for the unique challenges of electricity supply in rural developing nations, a comprehensive ‘Rural Power System Resilience Framework’ is introduced, including technical, economic, and social resilience. Social implications : To better understand the elements contributing to the stability of electricity grids in developing nations and rural areas, this resilience framework may be utilised by global markets, system owners and operators, government officials, non-governmental organisations, and communities. Originality : Through establishing this framework, this study sets the path for developing suitable and ‘effective resilience standards’ tailored for implementation in these rural areas, with the ultimate goal of facilitating the fulfilment of achieving domestic and worldwide sustainability objectives.