Appliances deliver critical energy services such as refrigeration, cooling, and communications that improve the lives and incomes of under-served households and communities. Continued development of off-grid and weak-grid renewable energy markets – and progress in energy access – is tied to improved availability of high performing appliances.
With high-performing appliances, smaller batteries and solar panels can be used in solar home systems, reducing costs and enabling customers to run more appliances for longer. Similarly, in the context of community-level mini-grids or weak-grid environments, they can help lower electricity bills, improve reliability, and reduce lifetime costs. Ensuring the quality and durability of appliances protects consumers and safeguards the overall health of markets.