This open access book addresses the issue of diffusing sustainable energy access in

low- and middle-income contexts.

Access to energy is one of the greatest challenges for many people living in low-

income and developing contexts, as around 1.4 billion people lack access to electricity.

Distributed Renewable Energy systems (DRE) are considered a promising approach

to address this challenge and provide energy access to all. However, even if promising,

the implementation of DRE systems is not always straightforward.

The book analyses, discusses and classifies the promising Sustainable Product-Service

System (S.PSS) business models to deliver Distributed Renewable Energy systems in an

effective, efficient and sustainable way. Its message is supported with cases studies and

examples, discussing the economic, environmental and socioethical benefits as well

as its limitations and barriers to its implementation. An innovative design approach is

proposed and a set of design tools are supplied, enabling readers to create and develop

Sustainable Product-Service System (S.PSS) solutions to deliver Distributed Renewable

Energy systems.

Practical applications of the book’s design approach and tools by companies and

practitioners are discussed and the book will be of interest to readers in design, industry,

governmental institutions, NGOs as well as researchers.

Fabrizio Ceschin