Income Distribution and Viability of Solar Photovoltaic Adoption in Rural Communities: A Comprehensive Analysis

This study examines the relationship between income distribution and feasibility of adopting solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in rural Indian communities, aiming to promote sustainable and decentralized energy access. Using systematic sampling and household-level surveys, data were collected from six villages across the states of West Bengal and Nagaland, covering 174 households. Analysis of daily electricity consumption revealed that average energy demand ranged from 0.8 kWh day^-1 in lower-income households to 3.2 kWh day^-1 in higher-income households. At the same time, kerosene usage remained minimal at less than 0.1 liters per household per day, and it was used primarily as backup during power outages. Grid-connected PV systems with battery storage and polycrystalline panels were identified as the most context-appropriate and technically balanced solution for rural electrification based on energy requirements, infrastructure reliability, and user behaviours. System design and sizing were adapted for each income group, with results showing that energy generation exceeded daily demand in all cases. It was found that higher-income households benefit from greater savings and shorter return on investment periods, whereas lower-income groups face affordability challenges despite appropriately scaled systems. These findings underscore the technical and economic viability of solar PV systems across income segments while also highlighting the need for targeted financial and policy interventions to ensure equitable adoption. Integrating socioeconomic factors into rural energy planning is essential for achieving inclusive and effective solar energy deployment in India.