Financial Analyses and Social Impact of Solar Home Systems in Bangladesh: A case Study

Rural illumination in Bangladesh is depends on the kerosene based hurricanes and lamps. In addition, car batteries and dry cell batteries are used run TV, radio and small watt fluorescent light. This study was carried out in two selected villages in Khulna district, Bangladesh. Six case studies were analysed to explore financial feasibility and questionnaire survey method was followed to find out the impact of solar home system (SHS) on social life of rural people. The study illustrates that solar home system with income generation is more acceptable than solar home system used only for lighting purpose. Moreover, the quality light provides the opportunity for household work and studying in the night and hence improves the quality of lifestyle in rural areas.