‘Doing ownership’ in sustainable energy innovation: The social embeddedness of microgrids in rural Pakistan

Abstract

Energy access remains a critical issue in many rural areas of the Global South, where off-grid solutions are essential for addressing electrification challenges. This study examines the implementation of a solar-powered microgrid based on a prosumer model in three off-grid rural communities in Punjab, Pakistan. The research explores the socio-technical dimensions of energy access, focusing on the interplay between land ownership, social appropriation, and everyday energy practices. Using a research approach that integrates engineering data and qualitative sociological inquiry, the study highlights how decentralised energy systems can both empower communities and introduce new challenges. Findings indicate that while the microgrid enhances energy security and fosters community participation, it also interacts with pre-existing property relations and social structures, shaping patterns of technology adoption. Women, in particular, play a key role in managing energy resources, linking electrification to broader socio-economic aspirations such as education and micro-enterprise development. However, constraints related to financial sustainability, governance, and technological adaptation persist. The study underscores the importance of localized governance models, capacity building, and inclusive policy frameworks to ensure the long-term viability of community-based microgrids. By analyzing the social embeddedness of energy innovation, this research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable energy transitions in the Global South.