Factors affecting sales of international solar mini-grids in Tanzania mainland

Abstract

The research purpose was to investigate factors that affect Sales of International Solar Mini-Grids in Tanzania Mainland. The motivation for the study was because there was evidence of a decline in sales of International Solar Mini-Grids in Mwanza, Dar es Salaam, and Arusha regions. The study used a sample size of 70 respondents, a cross-section survey, primary data, and secondary data. The study used the mixed methods research design. Multiple linear regression was employed in quantitative data analysis with the aid of SPSS.  Thematic analysis was conducted to derive themes from the qualitative data and information obtained was utilized to supplement the quantitative data. The study revealed that government policies, more specifically energy policy, significantly affect sales of International Solar Mini-Grids in Tanzania Mainland. In addition, the regulatory framework, particularly tariff, significantly affects sales of International Solar Mini-Grids. Also, customers’ purchasing tendencies were significantly affecting the sales of International Solar Mini-Grids. The findings imply that ignoring the factors affecting sales of International Solar Mini-Grids in Tanzania Mainland might worsen the power sector and solar Mini-Grids sustainability. This work recommends that to foster the sales of International Solar Mini-Grids, the government should have a suitable energy policy and regulatory framework geared to enhance the marketability of electricity and enhance customer purchase. The study contributes to knowledge by offering empirical evidence on renewable energy that will be of paramount importance to other renewable energy stakeholders.