Journal Markcount Finance
Vol. 4 No. 2 (2026)

IMPACT INVESTING AND CLIMATE FINANCE: MEASURING SOCIAL RETURN ON INVESTMENT (SROI) IN RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS

Ava Lee (Nanyang Technological University (NTU))
Rachel Chan (Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS))
Sanya Desai (Symbiosis International University)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study examines the role of impact investing and climate finance in generating measurable social value through renewable energy projects by applying the Social Return on Investment (SROI) framework. Growing global investment in renewable energy has emphasized financial performance and emission reduction outcomes, while systematic measurement of social impacts remains limited. The purpose of this research is to assess how SROI can be used to quantify the social and environmental value created by renewable energy investments and to demonstrate its relevance for impact-oriented decision-making. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining secondary project data analysis, stakeholder engagement, outcome mapping, and monetization of social and environmental benefits to calculate SROI ratios. The findings reveal that renewable energy projects consistently produce social returns exceeding the initial investment, with SROI ratios varying according to project type, scale, stakeholder involvement, and socio-economic context. Community-based and decentralized projects tend to generate higher relative social returns, driven by employment creation, improved energy access, health improvements, and environmental benefits. The study concludes that integrating SROI into climate finance evaluation enhances transparency, accountability, and alignment between financial objectives and sustainable development goals.  

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jmf

Publisher

Subject

Description

Journal Markcount Finance, established in 2023 by Yayasan Adra Karima Hubbi, has become a leading platform for economic research that connects financial innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation within the evolving economic ecosystem. In 2026, the journal introduced a change in its ...