EVALUATING THE SOCIOECONOMIC BENEFITS OF COMMUNITYBASED GREEN ENERGY PROJECTS IN ZARIA METROPOLIS: IMPLICATIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH EQUITY

Abstract

This study evaluates the socioeconomic benefits of community-based green energy projects in Zaria Metropolis and their implications for sustainable livelihoods and public health equity. A correlational research design was adopted, targeting a population of 300 households across selected communities, from which 295 respondents were sampled using a stratified random technique. A structured questionnaire served as the main instrument, while data were analysed with descriptive statistics and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation. Findings revealed strong and significant positive relationships between green energy access (r = 0.652), socioeconomic participation and employment (r = 0.490), and infrastructure-driven health access (r = 0.653) with sustainable livelihoods, all at p = 0.000. These results confirm that community-based renewable energy projects enhance income generation, employment opportunities, and health service delivery. The study concludes that decentralised green energy promotes public health equity and sustainable development, recommending community engagement, policy support, vocational training, and strategic investment for maximum impact.