A study in Tanzania explored the challenges of transitioning to cleaner cooking alternatives due to affordability issues and access barriers.
The research used a lockbox system combined with savings nudges to encourage consistent LPG use among low-income households.
Participants who received both interventions showed a significant increase in annual LPG refills, highlighting the impact of easing liquidity constraints on fuel affordability.
However, the study found that the increase in LPG refills was modest, indicating continued reliance on traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal.
Gendered financial realities also influenced fuel procurement decisions, emphasizing the need to consider social dynamics in clean cooking interventions.
The study recommends holistic policy designs that address gender norms, economic structures, and social pressures to enable full clean fuel adoption.
The use of a stepped-wedge randomized control trial design bolstered the study's credibility by phasing out interventions and allowing temporal comparisons.
Combining financial technology tools with behavioral insights showcased the effectiveness of hybrid interventions in enhancing energy access.
The study highlights the importance of addressing supply-side challenges, cultural preferences, and socio-economic factors in promoting clean cooking solutions.
Overall, the research underscores the need for multidimensional interventions tailored to the complexities of low-income settings for sustainable clean fuel adoption.