The societal impact of research: Lessons from adoption of green energy practices in informal settlements in Eldoret, Kenya

Abstract

This article presents the societal impact of research conducted on the adoption of green energy practices in informal settlements in Eldoret, Kenya. The study explored the types of green energy adopted, factors influencing their uptake, and the implications for health, sustainability, and development. Findings revealed the low adoption of clean cooking technologies, despite higher use of electricity for lighting, and identified barriers such as high initial cost, limited awareness, and lack of policy frameworks. Community-level interventions, including awareness creation, infrastructure planning, and policy integration, were recommended to foster widespread adoption. The research informs sustainable urban planning, health improvement, and poverty reduction, particularly in informal settings. It contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 1, 3, 7, 10, 11, and 13.