Although off-grid and decentralised solutions are expected to play a significant role, and mini-grids were assumed to be a game changer for rapid, cost-effective, pro-poor, universal electrification globally, the green mini-grid sector had not grown rapidly. Progress has been patchy between and within countries, across rural areas and informal urban settlements, and between high and low-income communities. Among the barriers to scaling up mini-grids in Africa are a lack of mini-grid-specific regulatory framework, unproven business models, demand uncertainty, limited access to finance, and lack of capacity. The main aim of this project was to improve our understanding of sustainability, inclusiveness, and governance of mini-grids in general and those in sub-Saharan Africa in particular, by developing an improved evidence base and a multi-dimensional appreciation of issues and challenges that could support better decision-making for universal electrification globally. The project was conceptualised through a collaborative process involving a team of UK-based researchers and research teams from four sub-Saharan Africa countries (namely Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and Tanzania).