Source: irena.org
These distributed systems are proving to be catalysts for sustainable development in the world's most underserved communities - communities that have contributed least to climate change yet suffer its impacts most severely.
The numbers tell a compelling story of global inequality. Despite progress in electrification - with those lacking electricity access dropping from 1 billion in 2014 to 685 million in 2022 - the gains have stagnated since 2018, particularly in rural Sub-Saharan Africa. The region now accounts for a staggering 83% of the global access deficit, up from 50% in 2010. While developed nations achieved near-universal electrification decades ago, this stark disparity highlights our collective responsibility to bridge the energy divide.
Solar home systems and mini-grids have become lifelines for last-mile communities, benefiting 155 million people in 2023 alone. While their 12.9 gigawatts of installed capacity may seem modest compared to utility-scale projects, their socioeconomic impact is profound. These systems don't just provide electricity, they unlock a cascade of development benefits across multiple Sustainable Development Goals.
Consider the ripple effects: solar-powered irrigation boosts agricultural productivity, ensuring food security. Healthcare facilities gain reliable power for vaccine refrigeration and life-saving equipment. Students can extend study hours and access digital learning. Women entrepreneurs gain new income opportunities, fostering gender equity and economic growth.
The technology economics are increasingly favorable. Declining costs and innovative delivery models like pay-as-you-go schemes have opened new frontier markets. Off-grid renewable capacity has already doubled since 2014, but IRENA argues we need to triple it to 38.7 gigawatts by 2030 to meet COP28's ambitious targets.
For European energy professionals, this presents both opportunity and moral obligation. The developed world's prosperity was built on energy abundance - an advantage that 685 million people still lack. The off-grid renewable sector represents an untapped market for technology transfer, investment, and partnership opportunities in emerging economies. More importantly, it demonstrates how renewable energy can be a tool for inclusive development and global justice, not just decarbonization.
IRENA's latest study highlights an overlooked renewable energy powerhouse: off-grid systems transforming underserved communities.
685 million people still lack electricity access - communities that contributed least to climate change yet suffer its impacts most.
Off-grid renewables are changing lives:
With improving economics and pay-as-you-go models, off-grid capacity has doubled since 2014. IRENA calls for tripling it to 38.7 GW by 2030.
For European energy professionals, this represents both market opportunity and moral obligation. Off-grid renewables prove renewable energy is about global justice, not just decarbonization.
How can we accelerate investment to bridge the energy divide?
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