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Renewable Energy in Kyrgyzstan

Renewable Energy in KyrgyzstanMany acknowledge Central Asia for its untapped, often overlooked energy resources. While the age of oil and gas has started to come to an end, Central Asia’s relevance in the energy space still remains. Kyrgyzstan opening its first solar power plant at the end of 2025 sheds light on the possible use of clean energy as a tool of national development.

Kyrgyzstan has made noticeable agreements with multiple leaders of the energy transition such as the UAE, China and Japan largely due to the expansive amount of minerals found in the country. While these countries get cheap access to important materials needed for renewable energy technology, Kyrgyzstan gets direct access to that technology. This is crucial to Kyrgyzstan’s economic development as the country currently suffers from unequal resource distribution and labor inequality. It is important to note the possible benefits Kyrgyzstan can gain through its current traction in clean energy because these issues are found in multiple corners of the world, not just to Kyrgyzstan.

Larger Access to Electricity

The current infrastructure for energy in Kyrgyzstan proves to be in poor shape; however, the increased investments in renewable energy in Kyrgyzstan will channel that energy to larger audiences with improved infrastructure. There is already evidence of this transition in the country: more than 50% of the urban population has a primary reliance on clean energy and fuels. This dependence indicates lower energy vulnerability which is a strong sign ending energy poverty.

Increased Jobs and Export Opportunities

New initiatives to increase private investment from the government offers the chance of more opportunities to employ local populations to work on renewable energy systems. This would have immense impacts on the Kyrgyz economy. While many initiatives are still in talks, Kyrgyzstan has already showcased the future through its current plans like the newly implemented the Partnership for Action on Green Economy. This plan directly assesses gaps and finds opportunities for local participation, with a particular dimension of gender-specific participation.

Some analysts note that Kyrgyzstan’s energy production will lead to a surplus generation which can then be exported to foreign entities interested in both renewable energy resources and technology and the actual energy itself. This would turn Kyrgyzstan into an export economy which would help with economic development as a whole. 

Climate Resilience

There is a common perception that consumption of fossil fuels is necessary for economic and national development. However, the impacts of Kyrgyzstan’s investments in clean energy show otherwise. The nation is directly contributing to climate resilience and the energy transition while still being able to develop its population, providing an alternative path to other nations in similar positions. Furthermore, this investment helps to address a key problem in local energy poverty rates. Central Asia, as a whole, generates 75% of its electricity through fossil fuel consumption making the region susceptible to global disruptions. By investing into clean energy, like Kyrgyzstan, nations in the region can combat this vulnerability as they would rely on their local energy sources for electricity generation thereby reducing this chokepoint.

Looking Ahead

Kyrgyzstan’s current patterns and position towards clean energy development have not been solely towards the interests of foreign entities or even the global energy transition. Kyrgyzstan stands as an example of how clean energy is very much the future and what it can do to improve the livelihoods of future populations. The country’s investments in renewable energy in Kyrgyzstan are not only enhancing the day-to-day lives of its population through larger access to electricity and increased jobs for citizens but also changing the perception of the country as a whole as they invite foreign investments and development alongside exporting current capital. These initiatives are essentially reshaping Kyrgyzstan’s role in the global economy into both a provider and teacher for other nations.

– Saanvi Mudpa

Saanvi is based in Seattle, WA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Micro-Hydro Power Stations in Nepal’s Villages

Micro-Hydro Power StationsNepal’s mountainous terrain and abundant water resources make off-grid electricity a persistent challenge for rural villages. Indeed, many remote communities remain outside the reach of the national grid, relying on kerosene lamps or wood fuel for lighting and basic energy needs. Micro-hydro community power stations in Nepal’s mountain villages offer a promising alternative, generating small amounts of renewable electricity from local rivers and streams to directly power homes, schools and small businesses.

This decentralized approach expands electricity access in areas where extending grid infrastructure would be prohibitively expensive or technically difficult. Between 2007 and 2014, more than 400 micro-hydropower plants were built under Nepal’s Micro-Hydro Village Electrification Program. These projects brought reliable, clean power to hundreds of rural communities and helped nearly 625,000 people improve their quality of life.

The power stations in Nepal’s mountain villages harness community involvement, local labor and sustainable water flow. They reduce poverty, increase economic productivity and improve education and health outcomes in the country’s most isolated areas.

Expanding Electricity Access in Remote Areas

Micro-hydro systems in Nepal typically produce between 10 and 100 kilowatts of electricity, enough to power dozens or even hundreds of homes in mountain villages. These systems do not require large dams or reservoirs, making them well-suited for Nepal’s steep topography and numerous rivers. Communities work together to construct, operate and maintain these stations and many projects include local training on electrical systems management.

For example, community-owned micro-hydro plants supported by the Nepal Micro-Hydro Promotion project helped villages install turbine systems that replaced expensive diesel generators and provided light for homes and power for mills and small enterprises.

Boosting Local Economies and Education

Access to electricity through Micro-hydro community power stations in Nepal’s mountain villages has had clear economic impacts. In Darbang, a 51-kilowatt micro-hydro plant sparked local economic growth by powering poultry farms, metal workshops and other small businesses that now operate year-round. The community coordinated construction and operations, drawing on training and technical support from government programs such as the Alternative Energy Promotion Center.

Electrification enables local entrepreneurs to use electric tools and machines, which increases productivity and income. Families who previously relied on manual labor and inefficient fuels now have access to power that supports income-generating activities and reduces the time spent on chores such as fetching firewood.

Reliable electricity improves education by enabling students to study after dark and powering classrooms with lighting and digital equipment. Community clinics can store vaccines and run basic medical devices, which enhances public health outcomes. Micro-hydro plants also displace kerosene and wood-burning fuels, reducing indoor air pollution that contributes to respiratory illness.

Community Ownership and Sustainability

Micro-hydro community power stations in Nepal’s mountain villages are often built and operated by locals, with support from organizations such as UNDP and the government’s rural energy programs. This model prioritizes community management, with members taking responsibility for operations, maintenance and tariff collection to sustain systems in the long term.

Micro-hydro community power stations in Nepal’s mountain villages illustrate how decentralized renewable energy systems can bridge gaps in electricity access where national grid expansion remains limited. These projects power homes, support economic activity, improve education and health and empower communities to manage their own energy futures. As Nepal continues expanding renewable energy solutions, micro-hydro power offers a scalable way to reduce energy poverty in some of the country’s most remote locations.

– Shahzeb Khan

Shahzeb is based in San Ramon, CA, USA and focuses on Business and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How Power Outage in Ukraine Affects Mothers and Children

How Power Outage in Ukraine Affects Mothers and ChildrenAs temperatures drop across Europe, including in Ukraine, the country continues to experience serious disruptions to its power infrastructure. These disruptions have ripple effects in Ukraine, particularly for mothers and children, including newborns. In January 2026, temperatures in Kyiv dropped as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit.

As of January 2026, about 80% of Ukraine is experiencing emergency power cuts. These outages have left roughly 15% of residential buildings in Kyiv without heating. The power cuts are caused by damage to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, worsening the country’s energy crisis throughout the winter. The severity of Ukraine’s winter, coupled with continued attacks on energy infrastructure, has increased the challenges families face in staying warm, particularly mothers and children.

Health Impacts of Power Outages

Ukraine’s winter conditions are difficult for most people, but for children and newborns, they can be especially dangerous. Without reliable power and heating due to outages, newborns and children face increased risks of hypothermia and respiratory distress.

For mothers and pregnant people, power outages create additional barriers to accessing adequate health care. Much medical equipment, including incubators and neonatal devices, has become unusable, resulting in a higher proportion of high-risk pregnancies and deliveries.

Power outages during winter also affect the mental health of children and mothers. Extended darkness, lack of heating and limited sunlight contribute to psychological strain. Social isolation caused by reliance on remote learning has further affected the mental health of children in Ukraine.

Man-Made Warmth

There are ways to mitigate extreme cold and address power outages in Ukraine. One approach is shifting aid efforts toward generating warmth. Providing emergency generators has helped offset energy shortages. For example, UNICEF has prevented complete shutdowns of essential services by supplying generators and solar power infrastructure, helping keep hospitals operational.

Man-made warmth also includes efforts to foster community and social interaction despite the cold. This is done through “warming tents,” which serve as community hubs where Ukraine’s State Emergency Service provides food and charging ports. These spaces also allow children to play with games and toys, offering psychological and social support.

While giving birth during power outages can be dangerous, donations that support emergency birth kits help reduce these risks.

Organizations such as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) also provide mobile clinics to strengthen health care access in hard-to-reach communities. These emergency birth and sexual health kits, combined with mobile clinics, have helped reduce preventable maternal deaths.

Looking Ahead

Europe is known for harsh winters, but modern heating and electricity usually allow mothers to give birth safely and children to remain healthy. In Ukraine, widespread power outages have increased risks for mothers, newborns and children. However, with continued support from organizations such as the UNFPA, reproductive and sexual health services are expected to help reduce pregnancy-related deaths in 2026. Community spaces such as warming tents also help children experience a sense of normalcy during a difficult winter.

– Bernice Attawia

Bernice is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health, Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy in Kiribati

Renewable Energy in KiribatiKiribati is a nation consisting of 33 islands in the Pacific Ocean lying directly along the earth’s equator in Micronesia. The territory gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1979. Kiribati’s location makes it the only country in the world that falls into all four hemispheres. Sitting on the International Date Line, it has the earliest time zone in the world. The country’s natural resources are coconuts and fish. Due to the threat of rising sea levels possibly engulfing the low-lying nation as a result of climate change, Kiribati has purchased land in Fiji for potential resettlement of its citizens (approximately 116,000 people). Still, the country continues to progress, improving its infrastructure, creating jobs and advancing its resilience to fluctuating climate conditions. The use of renewable energy can be key to Kiribati’s continued growth.

Kiribati’s Energy Challenges

As a developing nation in the remote continent of Oceania, Kiribati has distinct economic challenges. Among these is its ability to provide reliable, affordable energy to all of its citizens. Not only is Kiribati dependent upon imported fossil fuel (currently about 80% of its power comes from foreign oil) but energy distribution to its outlying islands is difficult due to their long ocean distances from the inner islands. Kiribati’s outer islands currently derive their energy from limited-capacity solar power systems and biomass (mainly wood).

Burning of biomass can release particulates and chemicals that can cause respiratory issues, heart problems and cancer. A lack of reliable, affordable energy can affect the health and well-being of island inhabitants. The use of renewable energy in Kiribati can provide a sustainable, economic solution to the country’s energy challenges and could push Kiribati’s current long-term growth rate from slightly over 2% to 4% and significantly reduce poverty.

Kiribati’s Energy Roadmap

In 2017, Kiribati developed an “Integrated Energy Roadmap” to address its energy dilemma. The roadmap defines a plan for making Kiribati’s energy supply not only more cost effective, but also greener, targeting a 22% reduction in fossil fuels. Reducing fossil fuel use will not only help to lessen the global carbon footprint but can also manifest social inclusion by providing affordable energy to all of Kiribati’s citizens. The country’s proposed strategy can help Kiribati to achieve energy independence and enhanced economic development by harnessing natural resources and utilizing indigenous workers. The energy roadmap includes strategic choices tailored to various islands’ characteristics. Plans for renewable energy in Kiribati include more efficient solar programs, wind power, biofuels and ocean energy.

The Green Hope Foundation

Kiribati has made progress towards its goal. The Green Hope Foundation has installed solar water distillation systems that purify seawater for drinking and agricultural use on several islands. Purification systems are essential as Kiribati’s groundwater is being depleted due to rising sea levels. Indigenous women help manage the facilities and educate their communities on water conservation. The distillation systems currently serve 1,900 people on three islands. Green Hope has plans to serve five additional communities of 6,500 individuals. Also in the works is a grid-connected solar photovoltaic project in Tarawa, the nation’s capital city that holds almost half of its 116,000 residents.

Other Types of Energy

Wind power holds promise for some of Kiribati’s islands. Kiritimati (also known as Christmas Island) has sufficient wind speeds to provide energy generation for its population of about 7,000 people. However, certain issues, such as noise, safety and the need to cut down coconut trees that provide much of the country’s income must be resolved prior to implementation.

Biofuel from coconut oil holds potential as nearly 80% of Kiribati’s land is covered in coconut trees. A coconut oil mill owned by Kiribati Copra Mill Limited in Tarawa has done trials mixing coconut oil with diesel fuel and with kerosene. The trials were reasonably successful, and commercialization is feasible in the near future. This biofuel could potentially be used across the country. 

Kiribati’s location and environmental conditions are optimal for ocean energy development. Indeed, the country’s energy roadmap includes plans for a 1-megawatt ocean thermal energy conversion plant. Testing and development have already occurred in South Tarawa. Though results demonstrated that such a plant would be feasible, it would require high startup costs and has logistical challenges such as the need for specialized vessels, ongoing maintenance, subsea cabling and material corrosion issues.

Outlook for Implementation of Renewable Energy in Kiribati

The use of natural resources for energy is an economical and environmentally friendly choice; however, implementation does not come without complications and challenges, including high installation costs. Kiribati and other developing countries do not always have the funds to build the required energy infrastructures. However, large-scale renewable power projects can attract investors who expect to receive a substantial return on their investment. The World Bank has contributed a considerable amount of funding, helping to enable renewable energy in Kiribati to become a reality.

Not only does Kiribati’s energy plan benefit the environment and help to accelerate its rise from poverty, but it also addresses social issues such as inclusion and women’s resilience. Indeed, Kiribati’s approach is a reminder that a well-thought out, inclusive policy to address energy challenges can have benefits far beyond the dollar.

– Debbie Barto

Debbie is based in Monroe, WA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Clean Energy in Kenya Is Powering Poverty Reduction

Clean Energy in KenyaWhen the sun sets over rural Kenya, darkness no longer marks the end of the day for many families. Clean energy increasingly influences daily life in communities that formerly relied on expensive fuel and smoky kerosene lamps. Children study after dusk, homes are brightened by solar lights and small businesses remain open later.

Renewable energy benefits the nation’s well-being and economy more than simply endorsing positive environmental pursuits. It actively supports poverty reduction in Kenya by expanding opportunities at the household level.

Expanding Clean Energy Access in Kenya

Millions of Kenyan families suffered from low productivity and bad health for decades due to energy poverty. Families spent a significant amount of their earnings on charcoal, firewood and kerosene. These fuels depleted cash and harmed people’s health.

Respiratory ailments were caused by indoor air pollution and opportunities for education and employment were limited by sporadic lighting. However, recent findings show how the nation has rewritten its past. Kenya has made great strides in expanding access to clean cooking and power through strong regulations and targeted infrastructure investments, according to a recent IEA assessment.

Kenya is positioned as a regional leader in economic and energy growth, thanks to its ambitious implementation plans. Its push for electrification using clean energy technology has put the country on track to achieve universal access to electricity by 2030. “Kenya is showing how the strategic deployment of clean energy technologies and electrification in end-use sectors can significantly improve the lives of millions of the most vulnerable people in the world,” stated IEA Deputy Executive Director Mary Burce Warlick.

A key contributing factor to this remarkable turnaround is the transition to clean energy. The nation is currently among the world leaders in clean power, producing more than 90% of its electricity from renewable sources. Large-scale initiatives like Lake Turkana Wind Power improved the country’s national grid and showed Kenya’s dedication to sustainable development.

Solar Power’s Impact in Kenya

This shift links clean power directly to long-term poverty reduction in Kenya by supporting inclusive economic development. Rural residents who would have had to wait years for grid connections can now get electricity immediately thanks to off-grid solar installations. Businesses like M-KOPA use pay-as-you-go methods to enable families to purchase solar systems with modest daily payments made with mobile money.

Millions of people now have dependable energy for the first time thanks to M-KOPA’s solar power connections to more than two million homes. Solar electricity facilitates exciting opportunities for people in Kenya. Parents may operate small home-run businesses, charge neighbors’ phones and extend store hours after dark with dependable electricity.

Reduced energy expenses provide free money for food, medical care and school tuition. Clean energy enhances pathways to poverty reduction in Kenya, enabling households to transition from a bare minimum existence to a more sustainable future, with potential for future investments. Additionally, clean energy enhances health outcomes, particularly for women and children.

Solar illumination reduces indoor air pollution and replaces kerosene lamps. Families are less likely to have fire hazards and respiratory issues. Furthermore, solar energy helps hospitals by supplying consistent illumination and refrigeration for vaccinations in isolated locations.

Final Remarks

The United Nations (U.N.) lists its Sustainable Development Goals, a notable aim being to ensure access to clean, affordable energy. Kenya’s journey toward sustainable energy is a story of possibility. The nation demonstrates that climate action and economic advancement can coexist by increasing access to reasonably priced renewable energy.

Clean energy today provides security, dignity and a practical way out of poverty for many Kenyan households.

– Prubleen Bhogal

Prubleen is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News, Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Solar Electric Light Fund: Fighting Time Poverty With Solar Energy

Solar Electric Light FundHaving sufficient time is essential for maintaining and improving all areas of life, including health, employment, education and personal well-being. However, individuals around the world face significant time deprivations, often due to unpaid labor and challenges in meeting daily survival needs. Known as time poverty, it can be understood as the lack of discretionary time that individuals experience on a daily basis.

Time poverty is especially prevalent among women and children in developing regions who perform a disproportionate amount of domestic and unpaid work. This results in a compromised ability to engage in livelihood-improving activities, such as pursuing education, securing paid employment or engaging in self-development. As a result, breaking the cycle of extreme poverty becomes increasingly challenging.

While the reality of time scarcity poses challenges for these individuals and communities, fighting time poverty is a process deeply intertwined with the fight against energy poverty.

Understanding Time and Energy Poverty

The Solar Electric Light Fund (SELF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating energy poverty by providing access to solar power where it’s needed most. The Borgen Project spoke with Bob Freling, the executive director of SELF, to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between energy and time poverty and how solar power serves as a solution to both.

Energy poverty can be defined as the lack of access to safe and adequate energy. This condition directly fuels time poverty, particularly for rural communities disconnected from central power grids. In these energy-poor regions, the absence of reliable energy to provide necessities like clean water, electricity and fuel means individuals must go through a time-consuming process to gather the raw materials needed to produce these resources.

The task of gathering these materials often falls to the women and children within a household, becoming part of their daily domestic work. For lighting and cooking, women often gather firewood or coal to create fires. Similarly, households that lack access to clean running water often require the frequent retrieval of water from distant sources.

Often, this is a process that must be repeated multiple times a day and consumes several hours a week. The United Nations (U.N.) estimates that every day, women and girls collectively spend 200 million hours on water retrieval worldwide. In these contexts, fighting time poverty becomes inseparable from addressing energy access.

Women and Children Trapped in Poverty

This widespread loss of time among women and children engenders many social disadvantages. Particularly, these demands result in reduced economic participation among women. This tradeoff between paid and unpaid labor limits women’s ability to engage in their primary occupations and compromises the opportunity for income diversification.

As a result, these women are put into positions where they are likely to remain income-poor, contributing to ongoing cycles of poverty for themselves and their families. Freling told The Borgen Project, “Time itself is a form of power – and for many women, that power has been systematically taken away. Unpaid labor is often invisible in economic systems, but its impact is enormous.”

Indeed, though largely unrecognized, unpaid labor makes significant contributions to global and national GDPs. For instance, the U.N. estimates that this work accounts for 21.4% of the average GDP in Caribbean and Latin American economies. In addition to women’s challenges, children living in time-poor households may face similar time deprivations, often resulting in long-term consequences for their education and development.

To meet basic household needs, many children must participate in domestic and income-generating tasks. These needs often take precedence over education, negatively impacting school attendance and study time and in some cases result in complete withdrawal from schooling. This has adverse effects on these children’s future ability to attain paid employment.

In addition to working in the home, time poverty may also increase children’s participation in exploitative labor within public industries, harming their health and development.

Solar Electric Light Fund: Solar-Powered Solutions

According to Freling, SELF addresses these challenges of time poverty by “tackling the underlying energy gap.” As a solution, SELF has implemented solar-powered water systems within communities, making clean water easily accessible. Many of SELF’s solar projects produce significant time-saving effects for community members, particularly in the time spent on gathering water and fuel materials.

“What was once an hour-long journey becomes a short walk down the block,” said Freling. To reduce reliance on collecting firewood, SELF provides communities with access to clean cooking alternatives through its Solar Cooking Program. This program teaches women to cook and bake using solar-powered cooking methods within their own homes, as well as for entrepreneurial purposes.

With this reclaimed time that was once allocated to collecting raw materials, women can exercise more control over their time. Often, this transition is followed by increased economic participation and productivity. This program also provides direct employment opportunities, with many participants working in or launching their own solar cooking and baking businesses.

Impacts of the Solar Electric Light Fund

Freling explains the significant impact programs like these have on fighting time poverty: “Solar energy returns time. It gives women back hours that can be spent earning income, caring for their families, learning new skills or participating in community life.” He notes, “That shift may seem simple, but over years and generations, it’s transformative.”

Alleviation from domestic and economic tasks has similar positive implications for children and their education. As households gain access to solar cooking, clean water and reliable electricity, there is a reduced need for children to contribute to household survival needs. This reclaimed time provides children with the opportunity to attend school consistently, study at home and ultimately graduate.

As noted by Freling, energy access also supports child education by freeing up time beyond daylight hours. With improved lighting systems, children can continue to read, study and learn at home after dark. SELF enables this by implementing in-home solar power systems designed to be accessible to low-income families.

These shifts improve children’s well-being and enable improved educational outcomes, making individuals and communities better equipped to work towards collective and sustainable development.

Looking Ahead

Through SELF’s dedication to affirming energy access, solar energy is fighting time poverty. It continues to dismantle the systems that perpetuate it. For women and children in developing regions, the shift to clean energy is especially transformative. As it produces significant time-saving effects for these groups, it opens doors by enabling economic participation, educational attainment and improving the quality of life.

As Freling explains, “Energy is not valuable for its own sake. It matters because of what it enables: clean water, food security, education, health care and opportunities. Over time, those gains begin to dismantle the barriers that perpetuate poverty and inequality.”

– Quinlan Bohannon

Quinlan is based in Portland, OR, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Transforming Rural Electrification in Tanzania Introduction

Rural Electrification in TanzaniaAccess to electricity is an essential aspect of a country’s development that plays an important role in improving education, health care, and economic development. However, millions of people in rural Tanzania still live without enough power. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), access to quality electrification in sub-Saharan Africa remains low due to high cost and difficulties in the extension of national power grids to remote communities.

In response to these challenges, solar energy has emerged as a practical, affordable, and renewable source of energy. Rural Energy Agency (REA) in Tanzania has played a key role in promoting off-grid solar systems and mini-grids to expand electricity access in rural areas. Also, Private companies such as Zola Electric and Mobisol have also introduced pay-as-you-go solar models that allow low-income households to access electricity without high upfront costs.

In addition, organizations like IRENA report that decentralized solar systems have improved education outcomes, health care delivery and local business productivity in rural Africa. This paper will explore how solar energy is transforming rural electrification in Tanzania and supporting sustainable development and poverty reduction.

Background

Tanzania is a country in East Africa and home to more than 67 million people, it shares borders with countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Known for its rich natural resources, including wildlife, fertile land and renewable energy potential, incredible landscape, being home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa and diverse culture, Tanzania has played an important role in regional trade and development.

Despite those advantages, access to reliable electricity remains a major challenge, particularly in rural areas, with only about 25% of rural residents having electricity compared to 75% in urban areas that aren’t connected to the national grid. Limited rural electrification in Tanzania has slowed economic growth, restricted access to education and healthcare, and widened the gap between urban and rural populations.

Health clinics without reliable electricity have trouble operating medical equipment, storing vaccines safely, and providing emergency care during the night. Similarly, small businesses face reduced productivity when they cannot power machinery, refrigeration, or communication tools, limiting the income of workers and local economic growth. These challenges have encouraged Tanzania to adopt off-grid solutions such as solar home systems and mini-grids as practical alternatives to improve rural electrification in Tanzania.

To address Tanzania’s electricity challenge, the country has turned to solar energy as a practical and renewable solution for rural and off-grid communities. The following paragraphs will examine the main solar energy systems driving rural electrification in Tanzania and highlight how these innovations are improving access to electricity while supporting economic development.

Solar Home Systems

Solar Home Systems (SHS) are small, off-grid energy systems that provide electricity to individual households in rural Tanzania. SHS provide houses with small, solar setups that generate electricity for basic amenities such as lighting, phone charging, radios, and small appliances. These systems typically include solar panels, a battery for energy storage, and sometimes an inverter or controller, which makes them perfect for off-grid areas where the availability to switch to the national grid is costly and slow. They are designed to provide electricity to homes and small businesses that lack access to the central grid, with components like PV panels and batteries that are engineered for basic electricity needs.

One major provider is Zola Electric, which supplies solar home systems to households through flexible payment plans, allowing families to access electricity without high upfront costs. Another key company is Mobisol, which offers larger SHS capable of powering multiple appliances and supporting small home-based businesses. These systems have significantly improved living conditions by replacing kerosene lamps with clean, reliable energy.

Mini-Grids

Solar mini grids are small-scale power systems that generate and distribute electricity to entire communities, including homes, schools, health clinics, and businesses. Unlike SHS, mini grids can support higher energy demand and productive activities such as milling, refrigeration and phone charging services.

In Tanzania, the government supports mini-grid development through the Rural Energy Agency (REA), which works with private developers to expand electricity access in remote areas. These partnerships help reduce costs, improve system maintenance, and ensure long-term sustainability of rural electrification in Tanzania

Pay-As-You-Go Solar

Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) solar systems allow users to pay for electricity in small, affordable installments using mobile money, thereby making solar power accessible to low-income households. This system removes the inconvenience of high upfront costs and enables families to gradually own their systems.

An example is Solar Sister, which combines PAYG solar with a community-based distribution model. Solar Sister trains and supports women entrepreneurs to sell solar products within their communities, increasing both energy access and local economic opportunities. This approach not only expands electricity access but also promotes gender empowerment and poverty reduction.

Looking Ahead

As Tanzania continues to explore other solar energy solutions, off-grid systems, mini-grids and pay-as-you-go models, a clearer path towards rural electrification can be achieved. With enough government support, private partnerships and continued investment in renewable technology, solar power has the potential to reach even the most remote communities. These systems not only improve daily living conditions, but also support education, healthcare and small businesses. Looking ahead, with enough innovation and practical application, solar energy can play an important role in reducing energy poverty and promoting rural electrification in Tanzania.

– Emmanuel Fagbemide

Emmanuel is based in Winnipeg, Canada and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy in Sao Tome and Principe

Renewable Energy in Sao Tome and PrincipeSão Tomé and Principe, with a population of about 220,000 people, is one of the smallest countries in Africa. It consists of two main islands near the Equator, with rainforests and many beaches. As is common on islands, there is a great dependence on imported goods. One of these imports is diesel, which the country uses to generate electricity. Most of the energy generated in São Tomé and Principe comes from fossil fuels, which harms both the environment and the country’s energy independence. A solution would be to focus on renewable energy. Sources of renewable energy in Sao Tome and Principe are more sustainable in the long term and can reduce its reliance on imported diesel for electricity.

Current Energy Situation

Renewable energy in Sao Tome and Principe is no longer just an option; it is a necessity. In 2022, 95% of all the country’s electricity generation relied on oil, which is imported, creating a big problem. This heavy dependence on imported diesel creates high electricity prices. The cost of the kilowatt per hour in São Tomé and Príncipe is $0.18, while in the neighboring country of Nigeria, it is a much lower rate of $0.035.

As a result, grid coverage in the country is limited, with approximately 78% of the population having access to electricity, and many people experience frequent outages. That means many people in São Tomé and Príncipe still use candles as the main source of light in their houses and have to burn biomass when they need to cook.

Electricity is essential. Homes, businesses, hospitals and schools all need electricity to function properly. The economy of a country is directly linked to its capacity to generate energy.

Renewable Energy Potential

One of the significant advantages of São Tomé and Principe is its enormous potential for renewable energy. This tropical island nation has mountainous terrain, rainforests and abundant water resources. Even though only 5% of the country’s electricity comes from solar and hydro power, Sao Tome and Principe can do so much more on both these sources.

  • Solar: Situated almost on the Equator, the country enjoys sunny days throughout the year, providing a sustainable way to generate electricity.
  • Hydropower: This form of energy generation was common in the country and could become widely used again with improvements to the current infrastructure. The creation of small hydro plants is a great alternative to strengthen electricity distribution in the country.

Current Projects and International Support

The government of São Tomé and Principe is aware of this energy challenge. It is taking concrete steps to address it, making renewable energy in São Tomé and Príncipe a reality. The goal is to achieve full electricity coverage in the country by 2030 with 50% of generation coming from renewable sources.

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is a partner in this effort, along with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the African Development Bank (AfDB). Their goal is to promote energy efficiency and increase the use of renewable energy sources.

A recent example is the launch of a photovoltaic solar park in São Tomé and Principe, with a capacity of 1.2 megawatts. This demonstrates the country’s intention to reduce dependence on imported diesel for electricity.

As mentioned above, foreign investment is key to developing renewable energy in São Tomé and Príncipe. With early initial successes, more external financing is likely to follow.

Environmental, Social and Economic Benefits

The development of renewable energy brings many benefits:

  • Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Using less fossil fuel to generate electricity means lower greenhouse gas emissions, which benefits the environment.
  • Lower Energy Costs in the Long Term: Initially, the infrastructure for renewable energy can be expensive, such as building a dam. However, in the long run, this option is cheaper than continuously importing diesel. The installation of the solar park mentioned above has already eliminated the use of 15,000 liters of fuel, according to Sao Tome and Principe’s Prime Minister.
  • Better Access to Electricity for Rural Areas: Rural communities can benefit greatly from renewable energy. Solar and hydro facilities can be installed near these areas, solving access and transportation challenges.
  • Support for Tourism: Tourism requires reliable electricity to grow. Using renewable energy is also a strong selling point. Additionally, tourism creates jobs, injects money into the local economy and increases the country’s visibility. With a contribution of up to 11% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), tourism is on the rise in Sao Tome and Principe and the energy production improvement in the country is sure to make it even more important.

Challenges and Future Outlook

The challenges for Sao Tome and Principe are clear: a lack of funding for large-scale renewable energy investments, a shortage of technical expertise and infrastructure gaps. However, these barriers can be overcome. The country’s full potential could make Sao Tome and Principe a model for other tropical island nations seeking a viable and sustainable energy system.

– Thiago Almeida de Andrade

Thiago is based in Edmonton, Canada and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Renewable Energy in Suriname: A Pathway Out of Poverty

Renewable Energy in SurinameSuriname is a small country on the northern coast of South America in which many rural families still struggle with energy poverty. Rural communities often receive unreliable electricity if they receive it at all and diesel generators only deliver power for limited hours each day. In isolated areas families pay high costs for fuel while students and workers lack reliable lighting and power for basic appliances. This constrained energy access limits economic opportunities, education and health outcomes. Renewable energy in Suriname is increasingly seen not just as an environmental goal but as a critical driver for inclusive development and poverty reduction.

Renewable energy initiatives in Suriname, supported by government partners and international institutions, are expanding continuous electricity access to remote areas. These programs improve educational opportunities, reduce household energy costs and bring dependable power to villages that previously relied on expensive diesel generators. Here are five Ways that renewable energy reduces poverty in Suriname:

1. Solar Microgrids Bring Power To Remote Villages

The Suriname Village Photovoltaic Microgrid Project is a major step toward expanding renewable energy in Suriname’s interior. The initiative uses solar photovoltaic battery storage and hybrid systems to provide uninterrupted electricity to remote forest villages that historically had only a few hours of power each evening. As of 2024, 12 remote villages are connected to the first phases of the project and this infrastructure is being expanded to serve 34 villages with continuous electricity at a combined capacity of approximately 5,314 MWh once fully completed. These microgrids enable households to use lighting, refrigeration and phone charging throughout the day and night improving quality of life and creating new economic possibilities for residents.

2. Clean Energy Reduces Expenses at a Household Level

Although Suriname has a high national electricity access rate, rural communities continue to lag behind. More than 99% of urban residents have access to grid electricity, while rural access falls below 90% and many remote villages rely on diesel generators that provide power for only a few hours each day. Renewable energy infrastructure is expanding through solar mini-grids and hybrid systems that combine solar panels, battery storage and diesel backup to bring more reliable power to isolated communities. For example, in addition to the Suriname Village Microgrid Photovoltaic Project’s accomplishments, PowerChina is building additional hybrid solar microgrid plants to supply electricity to 25 villages across regions such as Daume, Cajana and Galibi. By replacing diesel generation, these renewable systems reduce fuel costs and price volatility while improving the stability of daily life for rural families.

3. Renewable Projects Create Skilled Jobs

Renewable energy projects like the solar microgrid deployments often create opportunities for local employment in installation operations and maintenance. International development frameworks for rural renewable projects typically include capacity building components to strengthen local skills and workforce readiness. For example, technical cooperation programs supported by institutions like the Inter-American Development Bank aim to increase local capacity for energy infrastructure development and productive use of electricity in rural areas.

4. Clean Energy Empowers Small Businesses and Farmers

Consistent electricity from renewable sources allows students to study after dark and supports digital learning tools in rural schools. Stable energy also enables small businesses such as shops and refrigeration services to operate reliably beyond daylight hours. Hybrid microgrids and solar PV systems moving into Suriname’s interior are part of this broader trend empowering communities to plan and expand entrepreneurial activities with a dependable power supply.

5. Renewable Energy Strengthens Climate Resilience

Changing weather patterns threaten Suriname’s rural economy through flooding and disruptions to traditional livelihoods. Renewable energy in Suriname, especially decentralized solar PV and hybrid systems, improves energy resilience by reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and fossil fuel price shocks. Decentralized systems also provide essential power for critical services such as health clinics and water supply systems even during severe weather events or grid interruptions.

Conclusion

Renewable energy in Suriname plays a critical role in reducing poverty by expanding electricity access, lowering household costs and creating employment opportunities. Solar microgrids, home systems and hybrid energy projects strengthen education, health care and small businesses while improving resilience to changing weather patterns. As these initiatives continue to grow, renewable energy in Suriname offers a sustainable pathway toward economic stability and long-term poverty reduction.

– Shahzeb Khan

Shahzeb is based in San Ramon, CA, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Renewable Energy in Slovakia Is Powering a Sustainable Future

Renewable Energy in SlovakiaFor the last 10 years, renewable energy in Slovakia has changed from a developing goal to a national priority. A decade ago, this small Central European nation relied on imported fossil fuels to sustain its economy and power supply. Today, sustainable energy has become the cornerstone of economic and environmental growth. Supported by the European Union and local innovation, Slovakia invests heavily in solar, hydropower and wind systems to reduce emissions and strengthen energy security. This transformation demonstrates how small countries can contribute to global sustainability while improving the quality of life of citizens.

A Growing Commitment to Sustainability

Slovakia’s National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) requires renewable energy to supply at least 23% of gross final energy consumption by 2030. The plan aligns with the EU Green Deal while supporting job creation through green initiatives. EU financing and the Recovery and Resilience Plan have already funded projects that focus on sustainability, local employment and regional development, helping Slovakians gain stable work in growing clean-energy fields.

Harnessing the Sun

Solar energy is one of the most rapidly expanding forms of renewable energy in Slovakia. New photovoltaic farms across rural areas supply affordable electricity and reduce carbon emissions. The government proposed incentive programs that help households and businesses install rooftop panels, lowering utility costs for low-income families. These programs directly address energy poverty, which still affects about 6% of Slovak households due to aging infrastructure and high winter heating costs. By expanding solar access, families spend less of their income on energy and gain energy independence.

Hydropower: Slovakia’s Renewable Backbone

Hydropower remains Slovakia’s most consistent renewable source. The Danube River and its tributaries host hydroelectric plants that generate a large portion of the country’s clean energy. Ongoing modernization projects improve efficiency while protecting fish migration and water ecosystems. By upgrading its hydro systems, Slovakia demonstrates that environmental progress can build on tradition rather than replace it.

Wind and Community Energy Projects

Although wind energy is not yet a large part of Slovakia’s energy mix, many small-scale renewable energy in Slovakia projects are being developed. Supported by EU investments, western regions have installed small turbines where wind conditions are favorable. Local cooperatives let citizens invest collectively, meaning profits from green power stay within communities and support local growth. These initiatives empower residents and increase awareness of the environmental and economic value of clean energy.

Job Creation

Renewable energy in Slovakia is an economic win as much as an ecological one. The renewable sector has created more than 10,000 jobs in production, implementation and maintenance, which is necessary for a country that had a 6% unemployment rate in 2023. Furthermore, the IEA indicates that renewables create substantial private investments which stimulate regional economies and are, ultimately, cost-cutting. Thus, for households that experienced energy poverty and employment deficits during the crisis, the clean-energy sector serves as a stable employer and provider of safety.

Renewable energy in Slovakia is not just an ecological success, but an economic one, too. The International Energy Agency (IEA) observes that thousands of jobs are created because of the renewable energy sector in Slovakia. Furthermore, the more practical and efficient technological applications become, the more private investments it will receive and technological sustainability in the field becomes more realistic. These new energy applications will be economically sustainable for the long-term future for Slovakia.

– Sudhansh Reddy Pakala

Sudhansh is based in Monroe Township, NJ, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions, and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash