Evaluating Renewable Energy Policy: A Review of Criteria and Indicators for Assessment

This policy paper, presented by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in collaboration with the UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC), investigates indicators used to evaluate renewable energy deployment policies. Focusing on effectiveness, efficiency, equity and institutional feasibility, it analyzes the literature associated with these four key success criteria in depth, with a specific focus on lower income countries.

Most indicators have been developed for developed countries and rely upon sophisticated models and detailed data requirements. Yet relatively simple indicators can offer a useful ‘initial step’, far preferable to neglecting evaluation altogether. Institutional feasibility, although generally a prerequisite for success, is often overlooked in the literature on policy design and evaluation. Analysts need to look at criteria in combination.