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Assessing Opportunities for Solar Lanterns to Improve Educational Outcomes in Off-Grid Rural Areas: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial

Ognen Stojanovski, Mark C. Thurber, Frank A. Wolak, George Muwowo, Kat Harrison · 2021 · The World Bank Economic Review

Summary. A randomized controlled trial in rural Zambia tested whether solar lanterns improve children's educational outcomes. The study found no relationship between receiving a solar lantern and improved exam performance or study habits. The researchers conclude that solar lanterns are not cost-effective for improving education in developing countries, partly because flashlights already dominate rural lighting and improved energy access alone does not significantly impact learning.

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Stojanovski, O., Thurber, M. C., Wolak, F. A., Muwowo, G., & Harrison, K.. (2021). Assessing Opportunities for Solar Lanterns to Improve Educational Outcomes in Off-Grid Rural Areas: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial. The World Bank Economic Review. https://doi.org/10.1093/wber/lhab002

Details

DOI
10.1093/wber/lhab002
Countries
Zambia
Regions
Africa
Categories
energy, education
Added
2026-04-28