Antecedents of social exchange for a proactive engagement in the design of Renewable Energy Communities. Evidence from a participatory approach in Kenya.

Sub-Saharan Africa faces a lack of electricity and clean energy, hindering development. Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) offer a solution by empowering communities to invest in and manage their own renewable energy sources. This study explores how Social Exchange Theory (SET) can help in understanding the reasons behind the participation in RECs. By analysing motivations and linking them to expected individual and mutual benefits, the research aims at contributing to SET literature. Moreover, implications are provided to increase community engagement in RECs, leading to successful and sustainable energy solutions in Africa.