A wind turbine installed in a village in Zimbabwe may help decrease vulnerability, thus improving villagers’ ability to cope with the effects of climate change. A study of the project concluded that "[i]n this case study, small-scale windpower eases water resource stress and contributes to climate change adaptation in two ways: (1) by providing energy for water pumping in otherwise energy-deprived areas, and (2) by easing fuelwood consumption in households whose livelihood opportunities have expanded with electrification."

The installation of photovolaic solar energy systems in three Senegalese villages led to an increase in local productivity by encouraging people to stay in the villages instead of leaving in search of economic opportunity. Many socio-economic benefits associated with electricity provision were observed, such as improved health services, enhanced livelihood, and educational and cultural opportunities.