Forewords -- Conference Summary -- Part I: New Experiences, Simulations and Visions from the Field of AC and DC Mini grids -- Part II: Innovations in Value Chains and Financing Schemes -- Part III: Implementation and Decision-Making.

The volume presents innovative approaches to improving energy access in underprivileged communities. A core theme is the use of previously underutilized or unrecognized resources that can be found through synergies in supply and value innovation, novel financing methods, and the use of leapfrog technologies. The contributors illustrate how decentralized approaches and small-scale localized solutions can promote climate change mitigation and adaptation, and increase the resiliency of vulnerable communities. This book gathers selected articles from the 2014 Microenergy Systems Conference at UC Berkeley that focus on technical, financial, human, institutional, and natural resource capital. The contributions reflect the latest concepts, theories, methods and techniques, offering a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners and governmental institutions engaged in the field of energy access for developing countries.