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Poverty Reduction and Renewable Energy in Tajikistan

Renewable Energy in TajikistanTajikistan, one of the most economically challenged nations in Central Asia, continues to face persistent energy shortages that disproportionately impact rural communities. Despite efforts to expand electricity access, many households outside urban centers still suffer from unreliable power supply. However, Tajikistan’s rugged landscape and vast river systems offer a unique opportunity for the development of renewable energy, particularly in the form of hydropower and solar energy. With targeted investment and strategic planning, renewable energy can potentially play a crucial role in reducing poverty by expanding electricity access, improving living conditions and stimulating economic development, thus showing the active link between renewable energy and poverty reduction.

Tajikistan’s Energy Sector

The country’s energy sector is under considerable strain, especially during the winter months when energy demand peaks. Although statistics show that rural populations technically have near-universal electricity access, putting it to 100% access, around 1 million people still endure frequent blackouts and voltage fluctuations. These inconsistent supplies force many families to rely on coal and firewood for heating and cooking, which not only increases their daily burden but also exposes them to significant health risks due to indoor air pollution. These conditions also hinder productivity, restrict educational opportunities and strain public services such as health clinics and schools. Without reliable electricity, development, renewable energy and poverty reduction remain stunted in many parts of the country.

International Initiatives

In response to these challenges, a number of national and international initiatives have begun to promote the use of renewable energy in Tajikistan. To reduce wastage via energy loss, the European Union (EU), for example, has funded through a €20 million investment grant a strategy to modernise Tajikistan’s electricity grid, which will help update the grid to prepare for future renewable energy investments and lead to a much cleaner, renewable Tajikistan. Projects such as this allow rural areas to gain more access to the grid and consistent electricity, allowing critical institutions like schools and medical centers to operate without interruption.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has supported community-led hydropower projects in areas such as the Rasht Valley, empowering local authorities to manage and distribute energy resources more effectively. By focusing on local people, especially the youth, it enables the project to be fully accepted and utilised by the locals, allowing them the skills to fix any issues, but also find good, high-quality employment that leads to further success in renewable energy and poverty reduction. 

Positive Outcomes and Ongoing Challenges

These renewable energy initiatives carry far-reaching socioeconomic benefits. Access to reliable electricity enables small businesses, such as tailoring, carpentry and food processing in order to operate more efficiently and extend their hours, thereby boosting household incomes. Electrified schools can incorporate digital tools and access online educational resources, while clinics can refrigerate vaccines and power medical equipment, greatly improving the quality of health care. In addition, shifting away from traditional fuels such as coal and firewood reduces indoor air pollution, which is a leading contributor to respiratory illnesses, especially among women and children.

Despite the positive outcomes, several barriers continue to hinder the large-scale adoption of renewable energy in Tajikistan. High upfront costs and limited access to domestic financing make it difficult to scale solar and micro-hydro projects. Climate change poses an additional threat, as unpredictable water flows from glacial melt and droughts may jeopardize the long-term viability of hydropower. Furthermore, cumbersome regulatory processes could discourage private investment and slow the implementation of new technologies.

Potential Solutions

To address these issues and realize its clean energy potential, Tajikistan may need to prioritize a combination of financial innovation and policy reform. Encouraging public-private partnerships could unlock new funding streams for decentralized renewable systems, especially in underserved rural areas. Expanding regional energy trade may allow the country to monetize its surplus hydropower during peak production periods. Investing in energy storage technologies, such as batteries and pumped hydro storage, could also help manage seasonal variations in supply and increase grid reliability.

Looking Forward

In conclusion, Tajikistan’s abundant renewable energy resources present an opportunity for renewable energy and poverty reduction and support sustainable development. By improving energy access, especially in rural areas, the country can potentially enhance public services, grow local economies and promote environmental health. With continued international collaboration and a strong domestic policy framework, there’s hope that Tajikistan can transform its energy sector into a cornerstone of resilience, prosperity and social equity.

– Max Jenkins

Max is based in Exeter, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Moldova’s Freedom: Iași-Ungheni-Chişinau Natural Gas Pipeline

Iași-UngheniSince 2010, Moldova has been a member of the Energy Community, aiming to integrate neighbouring countries outside the EU into its energy market. The Iași-Ungheni natural gas pipeline project connects Romania and Moldova to enhance energy security. Initially, Moldova will source about 50 million cubic meters per year from Romania, while the country’s 2013 consumption was around 1 billion cubic meters. It fosters cross-border cooperation, promotes regional development, and supports the development of modern energy infrastructure. Gas supply began in 2015 to over 10,300 Moldovan consumers, with a planned extension to Chişinau, requiring an investment of €80 million ($92,592,000).

Initial Steps to Reduce Dependence on Russian Gas

Geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine, the latter being the territory through which Moldova obtained the gas provided by Russia, increased the urgency for alternative sources. The Iași-Ungheni-Chişinau natural gas pipeline, completed in 2020, offered a significant opportunity for energy diversification by enabling access to European gas sources. The capacity of 1.5 billion cubic meters per year, now expandable to 2.2 billion cubic meters, can supply up to 75% of Moldova’s average consumption and 60% of the average during the winter season.

The Ungheni-Chisinau pipeline segment construction began in 2019, covered by Romania’s Transgaz and co-financed by the EU’s ERDF, with a total cost of €150 million ($173,610,000). Although the previous segment had been operational since 2014 from Iași to Ungheni, it was only briefly used in 2015 due to limited demand, due to political disagreements, uncompetitive Romanian gas prices and technical constraints.

Energy Lifesaver: The 2022 Energy Situation

Traditionally dependent on Russian gas routed through Ukraine and the separatist-controlled region of Transnistria, Moldova’s energy was highly vulnerable to political pressure from Moscow. This vulnerability was exposed in 2022 when Gazprom, one of the main russian gas suppliers, unilaterally reduced its gas supplies. In response, Moldova activated the Iași-Ungheni-Chişinau natural gas pipeline, built with Romanian and EU support, to import gas from European markets. The gas measuring station at Ungheni, operated by Vestmoldtransgaz, is capable of handling up to 5 million cubic meters of gas per day, ensuring a reliable supply even during winter. Minister of Energy Victor Parlicov emphasized the pipeline’s role in preventing energy blackmail and announced plans for a new Ungheni-Balti pipeline to connect with Ukrainian storage, reinforcing Moldova’s integration into the regional vertical gas corridor and reducing its dependence on Russian energy.

The Iași-Ungheni-Chişinau Natural Gas Pipeline

After the success of the energy alternative, Minister Victor Parlicov emphasized that expanding the Iasi-Ungheni-Chisinau natural gas pipeline will significantly boost Moldova’s energy resilience and regional integration. Vestmoldtransgaz, the natural gas transmission system operator in the Republic of Moldova, works with proposing upgrades and potential new branches to Balti and Drochia. Strengthening collaboration with Romania, Ukraine and Poland will foster gas transit flexibility. Increased transit reduces pressure on Moldovan consumers and benefits the country. The “Chisinau Belt” project, set for completion by 2031, makes a key step in securing Moldova’s energy future.

Additionally, the EU and Moldova have launched a two-year, €250 million ($289,350,000) strategy to ensure Moldova’s energy independence and integration in the EU energy market, with €100 million ($115,740,000) allocated by mid-April 2025. The plan includes compensation for household electricity costs on the Right Bank and support for vulnerable consumers and institutions, enabling Moldova to disconnect the Right Bank from Russian gas and fully source energy from EU markets.

– Sara Arias Saiz

Sara is based in Leipzig, Germany and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Pioneership of Renewable Energy in Turkmenistan

Renewable Energy in TurkmenistanSituated in the heart of Eurasia, Turkmenistan stands out as the only country in the world to decree free electricity, gas and water for its citizens until 2030. Recent advancements in the renewable energy industry in Turkmenistan have significantly increased the level of exports to neighboring countries, alongside alleviating energy poverty domestically.

Greening Turkmenistan’s Electricity Sector

The state power corporation Turkmenenergo is responsible for the management of urban and rural electrification, and one can trace the successes of its efforts back to 1913, with the establishment of the first electric power plant for the Turkmen population. Until 1957, small isolated power plants and diesel-based stations primarily supplied electric energy to consumers.

By 1979, Turkmenenergo achieved complete centralization of power in rural areas, reducing energy poverty and integrating renewables into the grid. In 1993, initiatives to enhance social welfare led to the provision of free electricity to the population prioritizing fulfilling energy satisfaction domestically.  Additionally, Turkmenistan has increased electricity exports to neighboring countries like Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey, with a renewable sources powering a growing share.

Current Strategy

The development of a Public Outreach Strategy on Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Efficiency powers Turkmenistan’s transition to green electrification. The Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded the strategy, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) implemented it.

The outreach strategy aims to raise public awareness about the benefits of renewable energy in Turkmenistan and to harness the country’s substantial solar energy potential. Given more than 300 sunny days annually, amounting to 2,774 hours of variable sunshine throughout the country, there is a significant interest in tapping into solar energy. By investing in outreach and infrastructure, Turkmenistan is actively integrating renewables into its grid, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and striving to meet its Net Zero targets by 2030.

Energy Accessibility

The government is undertaking efforts to construct and reconstruct electric networks in accordance with the President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Development Programme, prioritizing energy accessibility in towns and villages. Leveraging the existing renewable energy potential will ensure a more consistent flow of centralized renewable electricity in Ashgabat, and this shift will reduce dependency on outdated modes of electrification based on traditional fossil fuels in Ashkhabad, Akhal and Abadan power plants.

The acceleration of renewable energy in Turkmenistan is integral for its economic, political and cultural development. Investing in green energy would help Turkmenistan mitigate energy poverty, and offer a more reliable and sustainable power supply. Indeed, studies have widely confirmed that increased consumption of renewable energy will accelerate emissions reduction and accelerate energy efficiency and conservation. Given this context, the acceleration of renewable energy in Turkmenistan directly supports efforts to promote sustainable environments that will facilitate urban growth by minimizing harmful externalities like air pollution and emissions.

The Turkmen Government’s Projects

The efforts of the Turkmen government have significantly alleviated energy poverty levels, reaching remote and hard-to-reach areas. The country has laid out projects to actively extend electrification from grids harnessed by renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to supply electricity to settlements located on the outskirts of the country.

One notable project involves the construction of a 10-megawatt hybrid solar-wind power plant in the Serdar district of the Balkan province, near the Altyn Asyr Turkmen Lake. This facility aims to provide a reliable power supply to newly established settlements in the vicinity, enhancing energy accessibility and supporting the socio-economic development here. Furthermore, the construction of these cost-effective alternative green energy facilities that do not contribute to environmental damage, ensures the implementation of all state goals envisioning sustainability and growth. 

Additional Development Projects

Turkmenistan is actively seeking international cooperation to enhance its renewable share in the energy sector. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) plans to provide technical assistance for integrating renewable-based solutions to support the country’s green transformation. These initiatives include developing solar energy roadmaps and launching pilot urban solar power plants, leading to diversification of the economic and energy landscape alongside environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, Turkmenistan has launched a collaborative project with the European Union titled EU for Turkmenistan’s Green Development: Policy Dialogue and Climate Action 2024-2028. This initiative would focus on promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency, including measures to limit and cap harmful gaseous emissions.

Looking Ahead

The commitment to attain renewable energy in Turkmenistan is evident through the joint practical steps undertaken through its strategies and international collaborations. By focusing on sustainable development and energy efficiency, the country is paving the way towards a greener future, which will benefit both its citizens and the broader region.  

– Tanisha Bhattacharyya

Tanisha is based in the United Kingdom and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Renewable Energy in Togo

renewable energy in togoOut in West Africa, Togo’s beating heart lies in its bright Palm Beaches and North Mountains. It is a country with a fine culinary scene and fervent voodoo traditions. As of 2025, Togo is home to about 8.5 million citizens. Despite its rich history, the nation grapples with widespread poverty, particularly in rural areas where the rate stands at a staggering 58.5%. In urban regions, 26.5% of the population lives at or below the poverty line. Yet, some significant changes are being made to help elevate Togo’s unfaltering rates. This includes major renewable energy projects that help provide clean resources and strengthen the lives of those disadvantaged.

Renewable Energy in Togo

Togo commenced its largest solar PV Plant in the country, a 50 megawatt facility, aiming to help around 158,000 families by helping them overcome poverty. This special landmark initiative was developed under the support of AMEA Togo Solar, with crucial financial backing from both the African Development Bank and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. The Solar PV tracks solar energy, boosting the flow of solar panels aimed at tracking the sun’s course. The plant receives most of its energy from Togo’s neighboring countries, Ghana and Nigeria. Their goal was to expand renewable energy to about 8 million people in the country.

A joint partnership between the African Development Bank and the European Union funded Solar Irrigation Systems, aiming to improve the quality of life in 500 impoverished rural regions. Together, both raised a considerable amount of $11.68 million for this vital project. Because of this, in September 2023, the companies implemented 122 solar water heaters and 153 surface pumps for farmers.

The irrigation pumps progress agricultural sustenance with the accessibility of water to grow plants and maintain harvest fields. Irrigation pumps advance agricultural sustenance by providing essential water for plant growth and crop maintenance. These are vital tools which allow farmers to produce food for communities in Togo. Their role highlights the link through technological innovation and global food scarcity.

Cultivating Change

Communaute Electrique du Benin created the Nangbeto Hydropower Plant Project in Plateaux, Togo. The 65.5 million watt hydraulic plant was inaugurated in 1984. Its main purpose was to keep track of 170,000 or more global power plants. It still performs an active role today and is undergoing modernized improvements, like refurbished turbines and upgraded cooling systems. This is to help continue its progress for another 30 years. This will primarily distribute electricity throughout the region and expand its power supply.

Togo is carefully working to advance its strategic investments in renewable energy. Projects like the Solar PV, solar irrigation systems, and the Nangbeto Hydropower Plant scores Togo’s commitment to expanding its electricity access. These initiatives highlight Togo’s steady approach to renewable energy development. Togo appears to be moving in a positive direction for its future.

– Janae Bayford

Janae is based in Centennial, CO, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Investments to End Poverty: Renewable Energy in Nigeria

Renewable energy in NigeriaNigeria is home to more than 220 million people, yet more than 85 million still live without access to electricity. According to the World Bank, this places Nigeria among the countries with the largest energy access deficits globally. To address this, the federal government has introduced a 450 billion naira (approximately $290 million) renewable energy budget aimed at reducing poverty and boosting inclusive development.

Electricity access influences nearly every aspect of daily life, from communication and business operations to school attendance and health care outcomes. In rural Nigeria, a lack of reliable power often forces health clinics to rely on candlelight or diesel generators, which are costly and inefficient. Students in off-grid communities struggle to study after sunset, while farmers face difficulties storing perishable goods for the market. Without intervention, this electricity gap reinforces existing inequalities.

Energy Access and Poverty Reduction

The government’s renewable energy initiative seeks to reduce poverty by expanding access to reliable electricity across rural and underserved regions in Nigeria. According to Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, energy poverty contributes to wider inequality, limits educational attainment and hinders health service delivery. Improved access to electricity can support small businesses, boost crop processing and reduce household reliance on costly, polluting generators. In support of this strategy, the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) has partnered with Nigerian agencies to scale up distributed renewable energy solutions and implement low-carbon infrastructure across the country.

Nigeria’s Evolving Energy Infrastructure

The country’s current energy transition includes solar, wind, geothermal and hydropower components. These renewable energy sources in Nigeria are expected to replace aging fossil fuel-based systems, enabling a reduction in emissions and creating new economic opportunities. According to Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, this transition supports Nigeria’s broader ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. Updated infrastructure could also generate up to 340,000 new jobs by 2030 across the renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency.

Regional Potential and Global Implications

Nigeria’s push for distributed renewable energy forms part of a broader continental effort to address energy poverty. The World Bank estimates that scaling up distributed access renewable energy (DARES) systems could benefit more than 200 million people across Africa. Nigeria’s model—focused on affordability, decentralization and local capacity—provides a framework other low-income countries could adopt.

Looking Ahead

As Nigeria advances its national electrification plan, future efforts could focus on improving grid resilience, expanding community-based mini-grid networks and fostering private sector collaboration. Streamlining regulatory frameworks and offering incentives for local manufacturing of renewable components may lower project costs and promote self-sufficiency. Expanding technical training programs could also help address skill shortages in the clean energy workforce.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), sub-Saharan Africa requires more than $25 billion annually in energy investments to meet universal access goals by 2030. Sustained political commitment and effective monitoring could be key to ensuring that these investments translate into lasting, inclusive progress for all Nigerians.

– Anastasia Flerchinger

Anastasia is based in Richland, WA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Solar Energy for Education: Access To Learning in Burkina Faso

Learning in Burkina FasoLocated in the heart of West Africa, Burkina Faso is leading in educational innovation by making strides to ensure clean and reliable energy for learning. Numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing education in the country led to the creation of various programs supported by national and international organizations like the World Bank and the World Food Program (WFP).

Promoting Education in Dori

GSOL Energy has successfully installed a 20-kilowatt-peak (kWp) solar photovoltaic (PV) system at the Digital Learning Center in Dori, Burkina Faso. Furthermore, the project, initiated by the WFP, is part of a broader effort to improve education in rural areas by providing reliable access to electricity.

The new solar PV system supplies a stable and sustainable power source, ensuring the Digital Learning Center in Burkina Faso operates continuously, even during extreme weather or inconsistent sunlight. The system also includes key features that boost its performance and efficiency, including:

  • Roof-mounted solar panels optimised for peak efficiency.
  • 20 kWh inverter system enabling autonomous operation.
  • Battery backup providing up to 12 hours of continuous power.
  • Remote monitoring is used to track performance in real-time.
  • Air-conditioned enclosure safeguards system components against extreme heat and dust.

As part of the project, local staff were trained in operating, maintaining and troubleshooting the solar system. This approach enables the learning center to manage the system independently, helping to ensure its long-term sustainability.

The Lighting Africa Project

The Lighting Africa project, funded by the World Bank through Burkina Faso’s Ministry of Energy and implemented in partnership with Innovation Energie Development (IED), promotes sustainable energy solutions. This project significantly enhances the use of solar technology in rural Burkina Faso and establishes quality standards in renewable energy. This project aims to improve energy access for 400 off-grid primary schools in Burkina Faso.

A key feature of the project is the introduction of solar libraries, which will provide 25,000 certified solar lamps to schools. Additionally, students can rent these lamps to study and complete essential tasks at home. Families can access reliable lighting without facing upfront costs by keeping ownership with the schools.

In addition to providing essential lighting, this project seeks to increase awareness and demand for certified solar products in remote villages, which may not have grid electricity for at least the next 10 years. Measures will be implemented to develop a sustainable commercial network for selling certified solar lamps and kits near the schools.

Digital Inclusion

The Resource Center in Ouagadougou, co-founded by Christophe Oulé, promotes accessible information and communication technology. Its members are developing digital tools such as solar-powered audio devices, e-readers, Braille printers and accessible textbooks to support inclusive education for people with disabilities.

In 2021, the center achieved remarkable progress by translating 150 books into the barrier-free EPUB format, enhancing access to knowledge for individuals with visual impairments. An additional 54 books have been scanned and are on the verge of being digitized, making them accessible for both auditory and Braille formats.

The center not only provides essential educational materials for blind students but also includes novels, making literature accessible to all. Using 11 laptops and 10 tablets, audio content is conveniently transferred to small memory cards, allowing students to engage with learning resources fully. Moreover, students can take advantage of a Braille printer, enabling them to print and read their lessons in Braille, further fostering an inclusive educational environment.

Planning for the Future

The World Bank has invested significantly in Burkina Faso’s education sector. It has approved the $140 million Restoring Education System Performance and Improving Resilience (REPAIR) project on May 5, 2025. This initiative also allocates a $10 million grant to support Host Communities and Refugees.

Currently, the project is seeking co-financing from the Global Partnership for Education. Its goals include expanding access to pre-primary and primary education, enhancing student learning outcomes and strengthening the overall educational services available in the country. This comprehensive strategy ensures a more resilient and effective education system, benefiting local communities and refugee populations.

Key priorities are developing infrastructure resilient to climate instability, providing emergency education for at-risk groups, improving the quality of learning and strengthening institutional capacity for effective decision-making. The project is divided into four components: increasing educational access, aiding emergency education, enhancing foundational learning quality and building institutional capacity.

These combined efforts reflect a clear push toward a more inclusive and sustainable education system in Burkina Faso. Indeed, with support from global partners, the country is making strides in expanding access, improving quality and building resilience in education for all.

– Vanuza Antonio

Vanuza is based in the UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Solomon Islands Renewable Energy Loan

Solomon Islands Renewable Energy LoanThe Solomon Islands, a Pacific nation made up of volcanic islands and atolls, faces ongoing development challenges. Once a British protectorate, it gained independence in 1978 and joined the Commonwealth as a parliamentary democracy. In 2000, a coup destabilized the country’s economy and the effects are still visible at the moment, particularly in the underdeveloped infrastructure and a high poverty rate.

The Solomon Islands’ Financial Situation

The Solomon Islands have a population of about 800,000 people, spread across 90 islands that span more than 600,000 square miles of ocean. About 75% of the population lives in rural areas, making it expensive and logistically difficult to deliver public services and infrastructure beyond the capital, Honiara. This limited infrastructure contributes to one of the highest electricity costs in the world. Power is unreliable and the country depends heavily on imported fuel, further inflating energy prices. These ongoing challenges have deterred local and foreign investment, limiting economic growth.

The labor market reflects this structural weakness. Only 10% of the workforce is employed in industry, while a significant majority works in agriculture. Most of this agricultural output is noncommercial and geared toward food security and subsistence livelihoods in rural communities. Although the official unemployment rate is low at 1.6%, underemployment and informal labor remain high due to the limited availability of formal job opportunities. These factors contribute to the Solomon Islands’ relatively high poverty rate of 25.1%.

The Saudi Fund for Development

Established in 1974, the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) supports low- and middle-income countries through infrastructure and sustainable development loans. The SFD has financed more than 800 development projects in more than 100 countries and contributed $21 billion in global aid as of 2025. Its areas of support include clean energy, health, education and poverty reduction.

Solomon Islands Renewable Energy Loan

In 2025, the SFD signed a $10 million renewable energy loan agreement with the Solomon Islands, represented by Minister of Finance and Treasury Manasseh Sogavare and SFD CEO Sultan Al-Marshad. The initiative aims to build solar power plants and battery storage facilities capable of delivering 35.5 megawatts of clean energy. The project seeks to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuel, expand rural energy access and stabilize electricity supply. These improvements are expected to lower costs, encourage local business activity and enhance digital access across islands. According to the World Bank, greater energy reliability may help attract investment and support long-term development in small island states.

Development Outcomes and Long-Term Goals

Reliable access to electricity could help stimulate economic growth, create jobs and strengthen local industries. In rural communities where employment is often limited to agriculture, expanded energy access may enable economic diversification and greater participation in the digital economy. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, the Solomon Islands aims to achieve 100% electricity access and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The Saudi-backed renewable energy initiative supports these national goals by reducing costs, improving service reliability and promoting climate resilience.

Moving Forward

The Solomon Islands’ clean energy efforts highlight how strategic development financing can accelerate infrastructure growth and reduce poverty in island nations. With renewable energy technology becoming more affordable, similar projects in other low-income countries may unlock new opportunities for sustainable development.

– Amelia Dutch Player

Amelia is based in Savannah, GA, USA and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The SEI’s Women in Solar Power Program

Women in Solar PowerAccess to sustainable energy isn’t just about electricity—it’s about opportunity. In many developing nations, women face economic exclusion due to gender barriers in technical industries. The Solar Energy International’s (SEI) Women in Solar Power Program is changing that by providing women with the skills and training needed to enter the rapidly growing solar energy sector.

Through hands-on education, mentorship and job placement assistance, this initiative empowers women to achieve financial independence while expanding access to clean energy in underserved communities. By breaking down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field, the program proves that renewable energy can be a powerful tool for poverty reduction and gender equality.

Gender Gaps in Energy and Employment

Women hold 40% of full-time jobs in the solar workforce, while men hold the other 60%. In comparison, that is still higher than 21% of women in wind energy and 22% in oil and gas, highlighting women at a disparity in the solar energy industry.

Getting training, either before or on the job, is often harder. Access to social networks is essential in high-tech industries, yet women have historically been excluded from these networks. A lack of independence is a key reason many women remain in poverty.

In countries like India, Uruguay and Brazil, where solar industries are rapidly growing, providing women with job opportunities is the first step toward empowerment.

The Women in Solar Power Program

SEI is a nonprofit organization founded in 1991 to eliminate barriers to training for people interested in working in solar energy. It offers various resources, such as hands-on training with instructors, online courses to prepare for a new job or even custom programs in solar education. The organization has trained more than 100,000 solar professionals since its founding. Additionally, 10% of the global solar workforce has worked with the foundation in a capacity.

The SEI’s Women in Solar Power Program is designed to empower women by providing technical training in solar energy. Offering women real field-specific experience, it holds specialized workshops like the “Women’s Solar Electric Lab Week (Grid-Direct).” SEI also provides scholarships like the “SOLV Energy scholarship,” helping women access solar education.

Impact on Women’s Economic Empowerment

The program has connected more than 450 women worldwide in the last two years with solar energy training and resources, giving them usable long-term career skills. Similarly, SEI has granted 132 scholarships since 2022, which have broken barriers to entry into the solar workforce and helped women keep their jobs for a long time.

Not only do participants in the program gain tangible skills, but they gain the confidence to enter the workforce as equals to men. Women gain the ability to become role models in their community, gaining long-term financial stability through one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.

Broader Clean Energy Access

The Women in Solar Power Program demonstrates that investing in women’s technical training is a powerful way to fight poverty and expand access to clean energy. By equipping women with the tools to thrive in the renewable energy sector, the program empowers individuals and strengthens entire communities. As the world transitions to more sustainable solutions, ensuring women are part of the movement is essential – not just for gender equality but for building a more resilient and inclusive future.

– Divya Beeram

Divya is based in San Antonio, Texas, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Powering the Balkans: Albania’s Green Transition

Albania's Green TransitionAlbania generates 95% of its energy from hydropower, a renewable source obtained from the movement of water. It has been the country’s main renewable source, providing an independent electric system that is non-reliant on imports. The use of hydropower as the main energy source is discouraged by environmental experts and local activists due to the impacts on the population. Water scarcity, soil erosion and uncompensated poverty damage lead to both rural poverty and mass migration.

Additionally, extreme weather patterns have affected weather conditions, causing droughts, which pose a real threat to the stability of these power sources. Therefore, the latest goal has been to promote Albania’s green transition and investments into other renewable sources such as solar and wind. The renewable transition aims to maintain a clean source of energy and avoid the abuse of water.

Solar Initiatives

On the one hand, due to the amount of sun and good weather conditions in Abania, solar energy was a great success. The country distributed 40 licences for a maximum of 466 MW of solar production. Although many of the current projects are at a small scale, in 2020, the launch of the large solar photovoltaic plant (PV) project named Karavasta predicted a promising future.

Voltalia is an international energy producer that focuses on renewable transition projects development and the primary investor in this infrastructure. Karavasta PV aims to provide half of the energy produced to Albania’s public energy company for 15 years, while the other half will be granted to private companies. The initiative’s objective is to produce electricity to supply around 220,000 households with 140 MW. By the end of 2024, the plant had produced 258 GWh, which translates to 25.8 MW, exceeding its initial goal. Consequently, the company decided to buy more land to open other solar power plants in the country.

Wind Power

On the other hand, wind projects have yet to be fully deployed. Albania is moving forward with wind energy, with a 234 MW project planned by Biopower Green Energy and Marseglia Group and 222.5 MW awarded to Guris, Total Eren and Verbund in 2023, according to the 2024 RenewStart report.

In addition, a 100 MW wind power auction is planned for next year, potentially increasing to 150 MW, along with an offshore wind project in development. Unfortunately, wind power projects tend to be slower due to their need for specific locations where not only is wind present, but also a grid source.

Albania’s Green Transition and Labor Market

The “Market Transformation for Solar Energy PV Acceleration” project in Albania is contributing significantly to skill development and employment. Around 250 individuals will receive training on solar energy projects with technical staff from the Energy Efficiency Agency. The project collaborates with the Albania-Japan Chamber of Trade and Industry (AJCCI) and provides studies on the feasibility of local businesses, encouraging private sector engagement. Albania’s objective of reaching 490 MW of solar PV capacity by 2030 could create 1,600 new jobs in fields such as consultancy, installation, maintenance, training and project management.

Fostering renewable energy projects tends to create employment and boost the economy. A small project with a capacity of 50 MW solar project already requires around 230,000 person-days of work, especially in the construction and transport sectors. This enhances local community jobs, with 70% of the workforce coming from the local area for installation and maintenance. Wind projects work similarly; they can create job opportunities for approximately 43% of local workers, according to the 2021 International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) report.

Benefits to the Local Community

The investments in PV energy produce clean electricity without releasing harmful greenhouse gases, reducing air pollution and fighting extreme weather patterns. Since PV technology uses small quantities of water, it can be useful in areas with water shortages. Besides, solar panels are silent, lowering noise pollution and improving living conditions. In rural areas, solar panels help the easy access to electricity due to their easy location in any place. Rooftop solar panels give private usage, helping lower bills and improving the economy.

Additionally, wind energy auctions in Albania will foster community benefits. With the production of 222,48 MW of wind capacity, it will strengthen its energy security and reduce dependence on imports of hydropower. Granting the population access to low-cost electricity, which in consequence reduces energy bills.

Albania’s Green Transition: The Future

Albania’s green transition moves a step forward and cooperates with the EU to align with the organization’s environmental standards. The country works to raise environmental awareness, promote circular economy practices and protect its biodiversity. The partnership reflects a growing recognition that the green transition creates jobs, encourages innovation and improves the well-being of citizens. The engagement in building a greener economy may position Albania as an emerging leader in sustainable development in the Western Balkans.

– Sara Arias Saiz

Sara is based in Leipzig, Germany and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Vaccine Coverage in Malawi Goes Solely Solar

Vaccine Coverage in MalawiIn 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the first solar direct-drive (SDD) refrigerators. It transformed how vaccines are stored in rural, remote areas worldwide. The Gates Foundation assisted in funding and supporting the spread of this innovation in Malawi; with the help of other organizations like UNICEF and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, WHO installed this in all 29 district-level vaccine storage facilities.

SDD Refrigerators

SDD refrigerators are solar-powered devices used to store vaccines at the proper temperature. Before the introduction of SDD refrigerators, earlier models were less reliable and more costly. Ice-lined refrigerators, which had been used for more than 20 years, were considered the most economical option.

Alongside absorption refrigerators and water-pack freezers, people found these units less efficient than solar-powered alternatives. They operated using gas, kerosene or batteries, which required frequent replacement and incurred high operational costs.

SDD Fridges in Malawi

Remote areas such as Malawi have been the top priority for the Gates Foundation due to their previous reliance on gas-powered refrigerators. Around 40% of community health clinics in Malawi are not on the electrical grid, making costly and outdated refrigerators their only option.

However, in 2015, Malawi received its first grant to implement only a few SDD fridges. After about three years of reliability, Gavi and UNICEF helped fund the installation of about 600 more in 2018. Since then, Malawi has replaced all gas and battery-powered fridges with solar-reliant fridges.

SDDs proved to be successful and sustainable. It is cutting carbon dioxide emissions significantly and giving cold chain managers the ability to track the maintenance of each refrigerator to confirm it is at the proper temperature. The equipment is also long-lasting and reliable, creating a concrete solution for Malawi.

Vaccine Coverage in Malawi

In addition to improving storage, Gavi and UNICEF are trying to bridge the gap between urban and rural access to vaccines. These organizations have specifically targeted communities with high rates of zero-dose children and developing equity-focused programming in collaboration with local governments.

The Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) from UNICEF shows that “across all antigens, Malawi is missing approximately 10% of children, with a significant portion of these zero-dose children in urban areas.” Providing adequate staff to recognize these patterns and advise immunization can catch these concerns promptly.

Impacts

According to Gavi, vaccine coverage in Malawi has shown impressive progress compared to a decade ago. This advancement has been supported by substantial funding and the availability of trained professionals in both rural and urban clinics, enabling effective vaccine storage and distribution.

Inclement weather is another factor in vaccine storage strategies. Malawi is particularly prone to extreme weather events such as cyclones and floods. When Tropical Storm Ana struck in 2021, significant damage was caused to the hydroelectric system, resulting in widespread power outages across the electrical grid. In previously vulnerable rural areas, health workers successfully kept vaccine doses cold using SDD refrigerators. At the same time, they had to move facilities relying on electricity-powered to avoid spoilage.

As a result, cold chain managers began re-evaluating the effectiveness of electric refrigerators compared to solar-powered ones. They transferred all vaccine doses from urban centers to more remote storage facilities. Solar refrigerators became the standard due to their strength and durability. 

Conclusion

The benefits of SDD fridges are vast, including bettering the environment and lowering long-term medical equipment costs. Cold chain management has taken a step in the right direction, with the Gates Foundation and more creating the possibility for success in countries like Malawi.

– Rachael Wexler

Rachael is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash