The Role of Social Business in Promoting Clean Energy Access for Women: Case Study from Bangladesh

Abstract

Access to clean energy remains a critical challenge for sustainable development, mainly affecting women in rural Bangladesh who experience disproportionate energy poverty due to gender inequalities. This research investigates the role of social businesses in addressing energy poverty by enhancing women's access to clean energy technologies, building vocational skills, and strengthening disaster resilience in marginalized communities. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining an extensive literature review, structured interviews, surveys, site visits, and direct observations at two rural schools powered by solar energy under the social business model. Data collected from these case studies include academic performance, enrollment trends, vocational training outcomes, and disaster preparedness impacted by solar electricity initiatives. Findings demonstrate that solar energy access facilitated by social businesses significantly improves educational outcomes, increases female student enrollment and participation in extracurricular activities, and empowers women economically through vocational training programs, such as sewing. Additionally, solar-powered infrastructure enhances community resilience during natural disasters by providing reliable, sustainable energy. Despite the positive impacts, resource constraints and sociocultural challenges persist, limiting wider adoption. This study suggests scaling social business models to bridge financial barriers, enhance capacity-building programs, and implement community engagement. Expanding social business initiatives can play a transformative role in promoting gender equality, sustainable energy adoption, economic empowerment, and climate resilience in developing rural settings.