Advancing off-grid electrification in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic: energy justice through frontline community engagement in solar energy mini-grids

Social, institutional, and financial barriers favour the use of fossil fuels to advance off-grid electrification in landlocked developing countries. Improved regulatory conditions and harmonised development processes are needed to strengthen investment outcomes and empower marginalised, off-grid communities to transition to clean and affordable energy. To foster sustainable development outcomes, it is critical frontline communities are afforded meaningful opportunity to participate in decision-making and preserve their customs, norms and culture. This thesis evaluates the extent to which the environmental impact assessment framework in Laos affords energy justice to off-grid communities hosting solar energy mini-grids.