Solar Energy Solutions for Healthcare in Rural Areas of Developing Countries: Technologies, Challenges, and Opportunities

Surafel Kifle Teklemariam, Rachele Schiasselloni, Luca Cattani and Fabio Bozzoli ()
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Surafel Kifle Teklemariam: Department of Engineering for Industrial Systems and Technologies, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 181/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
Rachele Schiasselloni: Department of Engineering for Industrial Systems and Technologies, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 181/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
Luca Cattani: Department of Engineering for Industrial Systems and Technologies, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 181/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
Fabio Bozzoli: Department of Engineering for Industrial Systems and Technologies, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 181/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 15, 1-22

Abstract: Recently, solar energy technologies are a cornerstone of the global effort to transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems. However, in many rural areas of developing countries, unreliable electricity severely impacts healthcare delivery, resulting in reduced medical efficiency and increased risks to patient safety. This review explores the transformative potential of solar energy as a sustainable solution for powering healthcare facilities, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and improving health outcomes. Consequently, energy harvesting is a vital renewable energy source that captures abundant solar and thermal energy, which can sustain medical centers by ensuring the continuous operation of life-saving equipment, lighting, vaccine refrigeration, sanitation, and waste management. Beyond healthcare, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions, lowers operational costs, and enhances community resilience. To address this issue, the paper reviews critical solar energy technologies, energy storage systems, challenges of energy access, and successful solar energy implementations in rural healthcare systems, providing strategic recommendations to overcome adoption challenges. To fulfill the aims of this study, a focused literature review was conducted, covering publications from 2005 to 2025 in the Scopus, ScienceDirect, MDPI, and Google Scholar databases. With targeted investments, policy support, and community engagement, solar energy can significantly improve healthcare access in underserved regions and contribute to sustainable development.

Keywords: renewable energy; solar energy; energy storage; rural healthcare; off-grid solutions; solar-powered health centers (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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