Despite mixed empirical evidence, policymakers often justify costly electrification programs with their positive impact on child development. This paper examines the impacts of a large-scale grid-electrification program in rural Ethiopia using high-quality panel data on nearly 1,200 children and their families. Upon gaining access to electricity, there are important changes in children’s daily routines, including reduced hours spent sleeping or helping their families. In addition, I document significant increases in children’s educational investments, which are particularly pronounced for females.
STEG Working Paper Series
• Research Theme 2: Labour, Home Production, and Structural Transformation at the Level of the Household,
Cross-Cutting Issue 1: Gender
Does Electrification Matter for Child Development? Evidence from Ethiopia
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