Frugal energy innovations for developing countries - a framework

Abstract

Frugal innovations have recently emerged to feature low-cost technologies and busi-ness innovations to serve consumers in emerging markets and improve their qualityof life. Although the concept of frugality is well known, the present literature on frugalenergy innovations, or energy frugality, is scarce, which could lead to overlooking itstrue characteristics. Therefore, we propose a framework for defining energy frugalitybased on a detailed analysis of several low-cost sustainable energy technologies. Thefive-criteria assessment method developed will help to identify potential frugal energyinnovations and will increase the adoption of these technologies through bettermatching to local needs. Fuel-efficient biomass cooking stoves, small-scale photovol-taic systems, and pico-grids are examples of such frugal energy technologies.