You are what you measure! But are we measuring it right? An empiric analysis of energy access metrics based on a multi-tier approach in Bangladesh

Groh, S., Pachauri, S. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8138-3178, & Rao, N. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1888-5292 (2015). You are what you measure! But are we measuring it right? An empiric analysis of energy access metrics based on a multi-tier approach in Bangladesh. In: Micro Perspectives for Decentralized Energy Supply Proceedings of the International Conference. Eds. Schafer, M., pp. 129-136 Berlin, Germany: Universitätsverlag der TU Berlin. ISBN 978-3-7983-2744-3

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Abstract

Measuring energy access through binary indicators is
insufficient, and often, even misleading. In this work, the
SE4ALL global tracking framework, and the recently
introduced ESMAP multi-tier approach, is critically
discussed analyzing questionnaire based primary data from
rural Bangladesh. The performance of different energy
interventions is evaluated using the new tier framework.
The challenges in its application lie in reliable data
collection, adequate gradation of indicators, and an
effective algorithm for the tier assignment based on the
specified set of attributes. The study showcases very high
sensitivities to parameter changes, different algorithms, and data requirements. The results reveal a clear trade-off
between capturing the multi-dimensionality of energy
access and the simplicity of an easy to use global
framework. Suggestions to improve the measuring
approach are made and conclusions are drawn for possible
implications of the tier framework for different energy
service offers in the market. Strengths and weaknesses of
the present measurement scheme are discussed and country
specific results interpreted through targeted gap analysis for future policy advice.

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