Proposal for a methodological model for the participatory implementation of renewable energy sources in rural communities of Imbabura Province, Ecuador
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61236/y767pc07Keywords:
energy transition, renewable energy, rural communities, energy governance, participatory planning, sustainable developmentAbstract
The transition toward sustainable energy systems has become one of the main challenges for Latin American countries due to the need to ensure universal access to energy services, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and strengthen territorial resilience to climate change. Although Ecuador has made significant progress in diversifying its energy matrix, many rural communities still face limitations related to access to appropriate technologies, community-based energy management, and the integration of renewable energy systems adapted to local conditions. This study proposes a methodological framework for the participatory implementation of renewable energy sources in rural communities of Imbabura Province, Ecuador, based on Cuban experiences and adapted to the Ecuadorian social, productive, institutional, and environmental context. The research followed a qualitative and project-oriented approach supported by documentary analysis, comparative review of international experiences, and methodological adaptation of social intervention models previously applied in rural communities. The proposed framework integrates principles of energy governance, participatory planning, multicriteria assessment, and sustainable territorial development to support future decentralized renewable energy projects. The methodological proposal is organized into six sequential phases including territorial diagnosis, socio-technical characterization, technology assessment, community energy system design, capacity building, and sustainability monitoring. Its main contribution lies in integrating technological and social dimensions into a structured planning process that promotes long-term community ownership of renewable energy systems. The proposed model represents a methodological tool for future rural electrification projects in Ecuador and other Latin American regions with similar territorial conditions
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