This was an innovation research project in June 2016 with funding from USAID which explored the user needs and adoption barriers for off-grid electric refrigeration technologies in Uganda. This project used human-centered design principles to understand the socio-cultural, economic, and practical factors influencing refrigeration adoption in off-grid communities. The research team conducted field studies in selected rural and peri-urban communities, employing ethnographic methods including participant observation, contextual interviews, and journey mapping to document the complete refrigeration ecosystem from acquisition to daily use to maintenance.

Technical investigations focused on understanding real-world performance challenges including voltage fluctuations in solar systems, humidity effects on compressor efficiency, maintenance accessibility in remote areas, and battery lifecycle issues. The research documented innovative local adaptations of refrigeration technology, including community-based sharing models where multiple households contributed to purchase and operation costs, and hybrid systems combining solar refrigeration with traditional preservation methods. The study also examined the broader ecosystem supporting refrigeration adoption, mapping supply chains for equipment and spare parts, identifying training needs for technicians, and analyzing financing options available to potential users.