Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objectives: Household energy composition is generally looked upon as a concept associated with the income level of the household. Current study is an attempt to understand various factors that influence the phenomenon of fuel switching in rural India in general and Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh in particular. Methods/Statistical Analysis: For the purpose of the study primary data was collected to look upon the energy use pattern at household level with respect to the household size, income level of household, availability of various energy sources, prices of the alternate fuels sources, time taken to utilise different fuel sources, and household’s accessibility to fuels. Findings: Study finds that despite major differentials in income at household level, the energy mix across income strata doesn’t show any significant difference. Clean energy sources availability, affordability and cultural preferences are three major factors that still influence the household energy mix in Himalayan transact. Application/Improvements: Fuel switching approach needs a major rethinking and income based top down approach is highly desired. 
Keywords: Energy Consumption, Fuel Switching, Household Energy, Income, Socio-Economic