Effect of Affordable Power Alternatives on Financial Performance of Some Selected Informal Vendors in Kebbi State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the effect of affordable power alternatives such as solar energy and mini-grid systems on the financial performance of selected informal vendors Kebbi State. Through surveys, and interviews on operational efficiency across three (3) communities (Danko, Kyabu District, and Maga), data were collected from a sample of 154 informal vendor operators from a population of 274. Mixed research approach was employed and data were assessed based on changes in income levels, operational costs, and business sustainability following access to alternative energy sources used by the vendors. The study employed regression analysis (SPSS software) to analyse the quantitative data, while table (NVivo software) was used for thematic coding of the qualitative data collected. Findings from the analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement in daily income, extended operating hours, and reduced reliance on costly fuel-based power sources. The study uncovered the transformative potential of energy access in supporting the development of grassroots businesses and offered policy recommendations for scaling such interventions in underserved regions which are suggested to be addressed through coordinated efforts among governments, private sector players, and civil society organizations.