Session 1: Energy Economics
Moderator:
Yongping Zhai



COVID-19 and Solar Products in India: Survey Evidence from Residential and Enterprise Customer

ADB conducted a survey of more than 2,200 users of solar power products in India, asking about the use of roof-top solar panels during the COVID-19 lockdown. Both residential (82%) and enterprise (96%) respondents reported that the COVID-19 lockdown substantially reduced their income. Some respondents reported that the lockdown has caused electricity supply disruptions. About 54% of respondents report that the solar product helped them cope during the lockdown. Of the customers reporting the electricity supply disruptions, 87% of residential and 73% of enterprise users acknowledged that the solar panels helped them to better cope with the lockdown.

Author/s: Takashi Yamano and Robyn Meeks
JEL codes: Q40, Q41, Q42