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Renewable Energy in Samoa

Renewable Energy in Samoa
While extreme poverty does not exist in Samoa, 20% of Samoans still live under the national poverty line, a decrease from 21.9% in 2018. This could be due to the initiatives working to increase self-reliance and sustainability focusing on the rural areas and those considered vulnerable, like women and young people.

Energy Projects

In 2019, Samoa conducted two small hydro projects, the first of many, to supply 20% of the Island’s demand for energy. The hydropower plants were constructed on two separate islands (Upolu and Savai’i) and underwent rigorous environmental safeguarding checks to ensure no damage to the surrounding areas. The goal to rely on 100% sustainable energy was on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic challenges, however, in February 2024, the E.P.C General Manager confirmed that the plans are still going steady, intending to have 100% renewable energy in Samoa the next seven years.

The plans come with several challenges, including the “high upfront costs of renewable energy technology,” requiring international partnerships to help fund the opportunities. The main donor parties include the New Zealand Government, The European Union and the Asian Development Bank, according to Hydro Review.

The aim is that the accessibility of cleaner and higher quality services at a lower price will increase and energy poverty will decrease. Samoa was on track to have 100% electricity access, reaching it in 2020, however, in the past four years the rate has been decreasing with the current rate being 98.30%. This decline, whilst not being as low as other countries sets a worrying trend for Samoa especially due to the increase in natural disasters, so action like the new projects (while not urgent) are necessary.

Subsidized Electricity Tariffs

The renewable energy project report states that the vulnerable people of Samoa will receive subsidized electricity tariffs and secure energy for all residents, creating social inclusion to help develop income generation models for the poorest project participants. The projects are established on existing sites with any that required land acquisition from locals being removed from the project, they also serve to increase economic growth and international relations, hoping to outsource the energy to surrounding countries. 

Looking Ahead

This push towards renewable energy in Samoa comes from the increasing reliance on fossil fuels and the increase in natural disasters due to changing weather patterns. By 2100, Samoa could lose 3.8% of its GDP due to the aftermath of natural disasters, potentially threatening the steady decrease of poverty across the country. However, with the recent projects, Samoa has simultaneously addressed both the threat that changing weather patterns hold and the needs of those living below the poverty line, harnessing renewable energy to help on a global and local scale.

– Caitlin Mulholland

Caitlin is based in Lymington, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy in Georgia

Renewable Energy in GeorgiaGeorgia is a country rich in history, situated at the eastern end of the Black Sea in Eastern Europe. Once home to the ancient kingdom of Iberia, Georgia is now charting its course with one of Europe’s most significant and rapidly growing renewable energy sectors. The Georgian people aim not only to promote renewable energy but also to use it to alleviate poverty.

Pushing Toward a Green Future

This push toward a green future goes hand in hand with the country’s economic policy. Specifically, Georgia has always maintained the goal of creating a liberalized economic environment for its people. This economy would be governed through minimal state interference, reduced taxation and free trade. These principles have already been put into place. For example, Georgia achieved an average annual economic growth of 3.6% between 2017 and 2021. The country achieved this by stimulating capital and investments through a system of structural reforms. Its renewable energy sector is one such reformation that has expanded into an industry of its own.

Georgia has been involved in the energy sector since the mid-’90s and its efforts have steadily progressed, yielding significant results. Approximately 70% of the country’s electricity comes from hydropower, with the remainder generated from coal and natural gas. This positions Georgia for potential energy independence from its neighbors, opening the door to becoming an electricity exporter to other European nations. For context, the country’s total energy consumption was 4.49 million tons of oil equivalent (Mtoe) in 2020, presenting a lucrative opportunity for sustainable economic growth.

In addition, the country’s energy sector is on pace for rapid growth. The state electricity producer Georgian State Electrosystem (GSE) currently produces 4,600 megawatts (MW) of electricity, which is expected to reach 10,000 megawatts by 2033. Furthermore, new hydropower plants are being proposed to aid this development. Even more, there are plans to construct photovoltaics and wind farms in the country. The fruition of these projects would have significant implications for the country’s renewable energy output.

Potential Economic Impact

The jobs created by this initiative could spark a significant economic boom for the nation. Citizens could engage in meaningful work within an industry, revitalizing their country and promoting a healthier environment. This potential is reflected in economic forecasts, which project Georgia’s gross domestic product (GDP) to rise to 5.5% by 2025, a 0.5% increase from the previous year.

Looking Ahead

There is still much work ahead and progress continues to be made. Georgia’s legislators are focused on realizing their vision of a green future by integrating and strengthening the economic and environmental sectors. Increasing these areas would foster sustainability and financial security for the nation and its citizens. In conclusion, renewable energy has brought much-needed attention to Georgia, establishing it as a significant player on the global stage in the pursuit of a brighter future.

– Drew Ellison

Drew is based in Laurel, DE, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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China and the World Bank Address Energy Security in Ethiopia

Energy Security in EthiopiaEnergy security is a constant concern for sub-Saharan African countries: out of the 20 countries with the largest energy deficits in the world, a staggering 18 are found in the region. At the same time, the area is home to about 80% of the global population lacking access to electricity.

Energy Security in Ethiopia

According to the World Bank, Ethiopia has the third largest energy deficit in Africa, with about half of the population unable to access reliable electricity. There is also a stark rural-urban divide: as of 2022, only 40% of rural households had reliable access to electricity, compared to 93% of urban households. Ethiopia has been making strides on this issue and recently expanded the electricity grid to cover almost 60% of towns and villages.

The main challenge, however, is the lack of adequate energy infrastructure rooted in a broader shortage of resources. Fortunately, several international actors have recently stepped up to help address Ethiopia’s energy gaps, including China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA).

China

China has been heavily involved in Ethiopia’s development for more than a decade now, reflected by the fact that Ethiopia is China’s second-largest debtor on the continent. Ethiopia was an early signee to China’s BRI, which has resulted in several multi-million dollar infrastructure projects in the country, including a flagship $5 billion railway from Addis Ababa to Djibouti.

Ethiopia doubled down on this partnership by joining BRICS+ in late 2023. This will grant the country access to BRICS’ multilateral financing institutions, thus paving the way for easier access to Chinese funding in the future. One program with particular appeal for Ethiopia is China’s “Africa Solar Belt” program, which aims to provide solar power to 50,000 African households. Ethiopia also plans to import more than 100,000 electric vehicles and 5,000 electric buses from China in the coming years in a bid to upgrade the country’s transportation infrastructure.

The World Bank

While China has often been Ethiopia’s main development partner, the country also cooperates extensively with the World Bank, primarily on financing. In the realm of energy security, the World Bank recently unveiled a program called Power Sector Reform, Investment and Modernization in Ethiopia (PRIME). This program provides Ethiopia with a “financing envelope” of $1.5 billion, disbursed in multiple phases in the next 10 years, to upgrade its energy sector.

The program focuses on investing in critical energy infrastructure and expanding electricity access more broadly. In an attempt to diversify and stabilize Ethiopia’s energy supply, PRIME will only invest in non-hydropower renewable energy sources since 96% of Ethiopia’s electricity is currently derived from hydropower. Almost all of the funding comes from the IDA, the World Bank’s fund for least-developed countries, with the remainder coming from a green energy trust fund, leaving none of the funding burden on Ethiopia.

Final Thoughts on Energy Security in Ethiopia

While energy security in Ethiopia remains an entrenched issue, the situation is improving: for instance, access to electricity has more than quintupled in the last two decades, rising from about 10% in 2001 to 55% in 2022, according to the World Bank. Furthermore, with Ethiopia’s new membership in BRICS+ and its 10-year financing deal with the World Bank, chances are good that energy security in Ethiopia will continue to improve.

– Kipling Newman

Kipling is based in Denver, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Energy Poverty in India

energy poverty in indiaDue to rapid population growth and economic development, India has a need to scale up its energy capacity to alleviate energy poverty and meet its energy demands. Energy poverty refers to household access to affordable, reliable and safe energy services. Although India could be the third largest economy by 2030, per capita income is below the global average, with regional infrastructure disparities affecting access to modern energy sources. The energy situation disproportionately impacts lower-income households, who spend a large portion of their income on energy or use less desirable energy forms, according to the 2023 Energy Research and Social Science article.

Governmental programs aim to alleviate energy poverty in India while promoting more reliable and efficient forms of energy. The Indian government will continue to subsidize all energy forms to meet growing demand while promoting technological development and private investment.

Energy Poverty In India

Energy poverty is still widespread in India because of the challenges of affordability, capacity and reliability. According to the Household Energy Poverty Index, 65% of households experienced energy poverty in 2020, but this is improving.

Energy poverty in India declined between 2004 and 2012 in most states but increased in poorer states which account for more than 30% of India’s population. It is declining slower in rural areas  — the greatest improvements being in major cities.

Energy poverty rates are higher than income poverty rates. In rural areas, 57% of households experience energy poverty while 22% experience income poverty, compared to 28% and 20% respectively for urban areas.

Energy poverty affects disadvantaged groups. It is linked to lower socio-economic status and level of education. Furthermore, lower castes and marginalized communities such as the Dalits and tribal Adivasi are particularly energy-poor or have only seen marginal rates of energy poverty decline, according to the 2019 Energy and Buildings article.

Despite nearly all Indians having access to electricity, 41% still rely on traditional biofuels like cow dung and wood for cooking because of financial insecurity. Women and girls are more likely to collect and prepare bio-fuels, detracting from time spent on education, childcare and income-generating activities, according to the 2019 Energy and Buildings article. These fuels create pollutants associated with chronic respiratory diseases, including tuberculosis and bronchitis.

India’s Energy Challenges

India has been increasing fossil fuel subsidies because of its carbon-intensive economy. Last year, 58% of energy consumption and 77% of generated energy came from coal. Crude oil accounted for 31% of energy consumption last year, but India imports approximately 87% of it, leading to vulnerability to price fluctuations and geopolitical risks that prevent lower-income households from accessing energy affordably and reliably.

Fossil fuel subsidies reinforce income inequalities by mostly benefiting higher-income individuals. They also contribute to health and environmental costs that disproportionately impact the poor.

During the global energy crisis, the Indian government instituted fuel price caps, tax cuts and budgetary transfers to help combat energy poverty. However, such measures led to overconsumption because fuel prices did not reflect their market value or social costs. This resulted in an estimated $346 billion in lost tax revenue in 2022 and less space for renewable energy and infrastructure development critical for low-income households.

Government Energy Policy in 2024

To address these issues, India is taking a hybrid approach by boosting all forms of energy. India is expected to invest more than $35 billion annually in advanced energy solutions by 2030.

Renewable energy is another focus, with a target to increase non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030.  The 2024 budget allocated approximately $71.7 million to the Green Hydrogen Fund to promote green hydrogen production and stimulate private-sector investment.

The budget also allows the first public-private nuclear energy partnerships, inviting $26 billion in investments for small modular reactors and research and development. The government will also engage in joint ventures for thermal power plants.

To ensure more equitable access, approximately $1.2 billion was allocated to subsidize solar panel installation for 10 million households and provide 300 units of free electricity monthly for some lower-income households. Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) projects like private solar panels, micro-grids and other community-focused projects help reduce energy poverty in Indian marginalized communities.

In addition to diversifying its energy sources, India has also diversified the countries it imports oil from to reduce price fluctuations due to supply changes and geopolitical tensions.

Energy Poverty in India: Conclusion

India’s multi-dimensional approach aims to balance its energy needs with sustainable and equitable access. Investments in advanced energy solutions and private sector ventures, as well as investments in clean energy and infrastructure, are necessary to meet India’s growing energy demand while working toward sustainable development goals.

Energy poverty in India is difficult to alleviate because of reliance on fossil fuels, deep socio-economic inequalities and infrastructural and financing challenges. However, India has made spectacular progress in recent decades in other developmental areas like poverty alleviation and expanding access to electricity. While the path to ending energy poverty is complex and long-term, recent government plans demonstrate continuity in efforts to alleviate the issue.

– Luke Ravetto

Luke is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy in Nigeria: Bringing Solar Panels to Locals

Renewable Energy in NigeriaNigeria, Africa’s most populous country, faces a significant energy deficit. The nation’s grid infrastructure is inadequate, leaving vast rural areas and many urban centers without consistent electricity. This reality means that millions of Nigerians rely on polluting and expensive alternatives such as diesel generators, which are not only harmful to human health but also detrimental to the environment. These challenges make the work of the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) critical, it seeks to champion renewable energy solutions in Nigeria that are sustainable, affordable, and accessible to all.

Addressing Energy Poverty

Energy poverty in Nigeria is not just a technical issue; it is deeply intertwined with social and economic inequalities. Women and girls, in particular, bear the brunt of energy shortages, as they are often responsible for household energy procurement, which can be both time-consuming and dangerous. REAN recognizes this and is working to ensure that women in Nigeria are a part of the renewable energy revolution, both as beneficiaries and as active participants in the industry.

Renewable Energy in Nigeria

REAN is at the forefront of addressing Nigeria’s energy crisis, a challenge that significantly hampers the nation’s development. It focuses on making fossil fuels a thing of the past, driving the shift toward renewable energy in a country where only about 55.4% of the population has access to grid electricity. This lack of reliable power affects nearly every aspect of life for millions of Nigerians, contributing to poor health outcomes, limited educational opportunities, reduced socioeconomic mobility and gender inequality.

REAN focuses on promoting solar energy as a viable alternative to fossil fuels. Through partnerships with local stakeholders, it has been instrumental in increasing the deployment of solar panels across the country. This initiative provides cleaner energy and supports local industries’ growth, fostering job creation and economic development. By encouraging the use of locally sourced materials and expertise in the renewable energy sector, REAN aims to boost Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in this critical area.

An impactful example of REAN’s work is evident in its support of Ajima Farms, where solar energy has significantly improved productivity by ensuring a consistent power supply. This story highlights how renewable energy can transform local businesses and communities by providing reliable and sustainable power.

Broader Implications for Society

The impact of REAN’s work extends beyond just providing power. Access to reliable and clean energy has profound implications for improving education, as schools can function more effectively with consistent electricity. It also enhances health care delivery, enabling clinics and hospitals to offer better services, particularly in remote areas. Furthermore, by reducing the reliance on fossil fuels, REAN’s initiatives contribute to a healthier environment, helping Nigeria to meet its commitments to global climate goals.

Promoting Renewable Energy in Nigeria

REAN plays a pivotal role in addressing one of the country’s most pressing challenges. By promoting renewable energy in Nigeria, particularly solar power, REAN is not only providing a solution to Nigeria’s energy deficit but also driving broader social, economic, and environmental benefits. REAN’s efforts are crucial in ensuring that the transition to renewable energy is inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial for all Nigerians, thereby making fossil fuels a relic of the past.

– Lydie Udofia

Lydie is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How Renewable Energy Can Save Tunisia’s Economy

Tunisia's economyTunisia’s economy fell dramatically in 2023 due to several factors, including the aftermath of COVID-19, a severe drought and financial issues. These challenges have made Tunisia one of the slowest countries in the Middle East and North Africa to recover and stabilize its economy. The economic crisis, exacerbated by COVID-19, has led to a projected increase in multidimensional poverty, with the national poverty line expected to decline in 2024.

However, there is hope on the horizon. The World Bank has helped create a plan for recovery, showing significant improvement. The initiative, titled “The Renewed Energy to the Economy,” aims to boost the economy by 2.4% in 2024. One key strategy is to enhance Tunisia’s renewable energy resources, which is expected to contribute to economic growth.

The Impact of Expanding Renewable Energy in Tunisia

About 90% of Tunisia’s electricity is generated from natural gas, with more than half of it imported due to rising demand. By harnessing wind and solar resources, Tunisia could meet its electricity needs more sustainably. The country has the potential to generate up to 280 gigawatts (GW) of solar power, while its current peak electricity generation stands at only 5 GW. This significant capacity could greatly benefit the nation. This shift would also allow for the development of energy exports and decrease the amount of finances spent on importing fossil fuels, which can be directed elsewhere.

Presently, the cost of natural gas accounts for more than 70% of the cost of electricity produced. The plan sets a goal of generating 35% of Tunisia’s electricity from renewable sources, such as wind and solar, by 2030. This would mark a significant achievement, considering the country currently utilizes only 3% of its renewable resources. The total projected investment for this project is $4.5 billion. One of the key support systems for this initiative involves enhancing the electricity connection between Tunisia and Italy.

Alexandre Arrobbio, the World Bank’s Country Manager for Tunisia, says, “Despite ongoing challenges, there are significant opportunities for Tunisia to transform and strengthen its economy. With strategic investments, particularly in renewable energy, Tunisia could significantly enhance its economic resilience and sustainability.” The new transformative plan is ambitious and faces several environmental challenges, but it could be the economic solution Tunisia needs. Arrobbio suggests that transitioning to renewable resources and reducing dependence on international fossil fuels would not only improve the country’s financial position but also advance its move toward a sustainable lifestyle, adding a layer of security for Tunisia’s future.

Key to Sustainability

Tunisia needs to reduce the cost of electricity, especially given the rise in oil prices since 2022 and the reliance on natural gas for electricity production. The increasing cost of electricity from fossil fuels is becoming unsustainable. Renewable energy can significantly lower overall electricity costs, particularly amid volatile international energy prices. Revitalizing renewable energy has the potential to improve Tunisia’s economy, reduce poverty and move toward greater financial independence and sustainability.

– Charlotte Johnston

Charlotte is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News, Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Solar-Powered Water Desalination: A Solution to Water Scarcity

Solar-Powered Water DesalinationWater scarcity is a pressing issue affecting millions of people worldwide. This is particularly the case in coastal regions where seawater is abundant but fresh water is scarce. As populations grow and adverse climatic conditions intensify, the demand for freshwater continues to rise, exacerbating this challenge. One promising solution to this problem is solar-powered water desalination, which harnesses renewable energy to produce clean drinking water from seawater.

The Basics of Desalination

Desalination is the process of removing salt and other impurities from seawater to produce fresh water. There are several methods of desalination, but the most common are reverse osmosis and thermal desalination. Reverse osmosis involves forcing seawater through a semipermeable membrane that filters out salt and other impurities. In contrast, thermal desalination involves heating seawater to produce steam, which is then condensed into fresh water.

Integrating solar power into desalination processes can significantly reduce the environmental impact and operating costs associated with traditional desalination methods, which often rely on fossil fuels. Solar energy can be used to power the pumps and membranes in reverse osmosis systems or to provide the heat needed for thermal desalination.

Kenya and Bangladesh

In the coastal region of Kenya, the solar-powered desalination plant in the town of Kiunga has been providing clean drinking water to thousands of residents. This project, initiated by the nonprofit organization GivePower, uses solar panels to generate electricity for reverse osmosis desalination. The project is capable of producing up to 35,000 liters of fresh water daily.

In Bangladesh, where freshwater scarcity is a critical issue in coastal areas, a solar-powered desalination plant was established on the remote island of Kutubdia. This plant, supported by the World Bank and local nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), provides fresh water to the island’s inhabitants each day. The project showcases the feasibility of using renewable energy to address water scarcity in vulnerable regions, significantly improving the quality of life for local communities.

Environmental Benefits of Solar-Powered Desalination

Utilizing solar energy for desalination offers numerous environmental benefits compared to traditional methods that depend on fossil fuels. One of the most significant advantages is the reduction of carbon emissions. Solar-powered desalination plants emit little to no greenhouse gasses, contributing to the fight against the rise in the average earth’s surface temperature.

Additionally, solar energy is a renewable resource, which means it can provide a sustainable and long-term solution to water scarcity without depleting natural resources. Moreover, the ecological footprint of solar-powered desalination is smaller than that of conventional desalination. By minimizing the use of fossil fuels, solar desalination reduces the pollution and environmental degradation associated with fossil fuel extraction and combustion.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite its potential, solar-powered desalination faces several challenges and limitations. The initial setup costs for solar desalination plants can be high, which may deter investment in developing countries with limited financial resources. Maintenance and operation of these systems also require technical expertise, which might not be readily available in remote or impoverished areas.

However, these challenges are not insurmountable. Advances in technology and economies of scale can reduce the costs of solar panels and desalination equipment over time. Additionally, capacity-building initiatives and international cooperation can help develop the necessary technical skills and infrastructure to support the widespread adoption of solar-powered desalination.

Final Remark

The successful implementation of solar-powered desalination projects in Kenya and Bangladesh illustrates the technology’s potential to provide a sustainable solution to water scarcity in coastal regions. By investing in and supporting the deployment of these innovations, policymakers and international organizations can help combat global water shortages and improve the quality of life for millions of people.

To ensure the scalability and adaptability of this promising technology, it is crucial to continue researching and developing cost-effective solutions, fostering international collaboration and prioritizing the needs of vulnerable communities. With concerted efforts, solar-powered desalination can play a vital role in securing a sustainable water future for coastal regions worldwide.

– Chelsea Rasool

Chelsea is based in Belfast, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Ending Energy Poverty in Cambodia

Energy Poverty in CambodiaAccording to the World Bank, only 9.5% of Cambodians had access to electricity in 2001. As of 2023, that number is now more than 92%. This remarkable accomplishment results from international and local efforts. Furthermore, the initiatives are prominently supported by Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7). SDG 7 is a United Nations (U.N.) initiative dedicated to “ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.” The Southeast Asian Kingdom is in the final stretch of completing this goal. Energy poverty in Cambodia is close to being completely eradicated.

The Impact of SDG 7

Energy poverty is the “lack of adequate, affordable, reliable, quality, safe and environmentally sound energy services to support development.” Energy poverty and normal poverty are strongly interwoven. Furthermore, inadequate access to energy exacerbates malnutrition, unsanitary living environments and lack of access to jobs and education. Recognizing this, every member of the U.N. came together in 2015 and adopted 17 SDGs to be completed by 2030.

The seventh of these (SDG 7) was directed at ending energy poverty worldwide. This does not only mean providing energy to communities off the grid but also upgrading current grids to increase reliability and reduce cost. Indeed, implementing green energy into the mix and improving the rate of energy efficiency, are also part of the goal. From 2010 to 2021, the global number of people without electricity declined from more than a billion to around 675 million. Asia saw the greatest change, with 425 million people gaining access to power.

The Fastest Electrifying Country

Cambodia’s progress has been remarkable. Since the creation of SDG 7, the Kingdom has increased energy access by 30%, bringing electricity to more than five million people. Between 2010 and 2017, “Cambodia electrified at a rate of 8.3% annually,” making it one of the fastest in the world. The U.N. has worked closely with communities, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and the private sector to end energy poverty in Cambodia.

Additionally, in cities, 97% of this power comes from the national grid instead of imported electricity from neighboring countries or independent mini-grids. In rural areas, 67% comes from the national grid. In hard-to-reach areas that cannot be connected to the main grid, the U.N. implemented solar-powered mini-grids. The grids are self-sustaining and easy to maintain.

The Final Mile

As of 2022, the Electric Authority of Cambodia reported that 350 Cambodian villages are still without power. The government plans to bring electricity to 170 of them before the 2030 SDG deadline. Reaching the remaining 180 towns and eradicating energy poverty is the most difficult task. Many of these communities are beyond distribution networks’ reach, lack roads, are in flood zones or are floating in the sea. Furthermore, nearly two-thirds of homes connected to the grid experience power outages.

In response, the Japanese government pledged to support the fight to end energy poverty in Cambodia. Through the U.N., it has committed to providing power to 1,300 households (some 6,000 people) by establishing solar-powered mini-grids. It is also set to strengthen and expand the local community-owned corporations that oversee the electric systems. Recently, the U.N. enlisted the International Cooperation of Cambodia, a local NGO, to build community trust and accelerate the implementation process. While many challenges remain, the U.N. and those involved with SDG 7 are working diligently to help Cambodia achieve 100% electrification.

– Mason Borden

Mason is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy in Somalia 

Renewable Energy in Somalia The World Bank shows that just under 50% of the population in Somalia has access to electricity, as of 2022. The provision of electricity services to the Somali population has no doubt improved since the turn of the century, with estimates showing that just 2.1% of people had access to electricity in 2000. Yet, a large imbalance between access to electricity in urban (76.7%) and rural (30.6%) areas still remains. Continuing the development of renewable energy in Somalia through initiatives like the Somalia Electricity Sector Recovery Project (SESRP) could widen access to electricity for basic needs and services for those in rural areas and bring power to crucial public-sector facilities such as schools and hospitals.

Background

Political violence and the collapse of the Somali government led to the destruction of crucial energy infrastructure in Somalia in the 1990s. As a result, Somalia has no national power grid and relies mostly on privately owned energy sources. Diesel generators are the main source of electricity in Somalia, however, these are often outdated and inefficient.

Currently, renewable energy sources only make up 12.2% of Somalia’s total energy production. Despite this, Somalia has high renewable energy potential. The International Trade Administration (ITA) suggest Somalia could generate up to 45,000 MW through onshore wind power alone.

A Clean Energy Future

The Government of Somalia aims to improve access to electricity in the country by implementing the SESRP, for which the World Bank has provided funding. This project aims to unlock the high potential of renewable energy in Somalia, utilizing hybridization technologies and creating off-grid solar farms to power public institutions. The government suggests that this project will provide electricity to 1.1 million households, 205 health facilities and 380 schools.

Through the project, the government has begun to install solar photovoltaic systems within educational facilities, marking a clear step toward the country’s clean energy transition. The installation of these systems will provide a more reliable power supply in schools, meeting the educational needs of children as well as creating numerous jobs.

Key Challenges

Solar energy systems have significant potential as a source of electricity and power in Somalia. The country’s geographical location, climate and high solar radiation levels make the introduction of photovoltaic panels a highly suitable alternative to fossil fuels, according to the Energy Strategy Reviews.

That said, the development of renewable energy in Somalia also faces numerous challenges. A lack of trained specialists, continued instability, and inadequate energy infrastructure are creating reluctance within the private sector to invest in Somalia’s renewable energy projects, Energy Strategy Reviews reports. Significant investment is necessary in skills training and in developing existing infrastructure to attract the necessary investment to utilize Somalia’s renewable energy potential fully.

Energy Strategy Reviews show that heat and high amounts of dust in the region also hinder the efficiency of solar photovoltaic systems. To mitigate the impact of dust and heat, these systems need to be regularly cleaned and covered.

Encouraging Future Investment

Ensuring that renewable energy projects in Somalia are fully implemented is crucial. Not only could this benefit rural communities, but expanding electricity access to public institutions through solar PV systems could help improve health and educational facilities in the country. Encouraging further investment in skills training and energy infrastructure could also stimulate private sector interest in Somalia for its enormous renewable energy potential, boosting economic growth in the country and lifting more people out of poverty.

– Joshua Marriott

Joshua is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Solar-Powered Well Revolution in India

Solar-powered wellsRajasthan, the largest state in India, is also one of the driest. The soil in the region is predominantly saline or alkaline, requiring a generous amount of water for successful cultivation. Some areas are covered by sand and desert. Many villages rely on traditional wells and seasonal rainfall, often insufficient to meet their needs. Water is scarce in Rajasthan but can typically be found at 100 to 200 feet deep.

The Invention

The state of Rajasthan is addressing its water needs with solar-powered wells. This cost-effective solution offers farmers an alternative to unpredictable rainfall. These solar-powered wells are replacing costly diesel or grid-powered pumps in some areas. The solar-powered pump draws water from underground to the surface, making it available for agricultural use. This innovation is a significant boost for farmers, greatly enhancing farm productivity and improving food security. Rajasthan is home to numerous large solar power parks, the first of its kind in India. It was established in a village in the state in 2012. Since then, many more solar parks have been developed in Rajasthan and across India.

The Indian government has set up 57 solar parks across 13 states, with nine in Rajasthan. This indicates that while Rajasthan pioneered this initiative, other parts of the country are also eager to harness the benefits of solar energy. Rajasthan’s favorable landscape and sunny climate make it an ideal location for renewable energy projects, particularly in the solar sector. The state remains the leading solar-powered region in India, with a capacity exceeding 16 gigawatts. Major solar power companies in India, such as Tata Power Solar, Insolation Energy and Goldi Solar, are prominent players.

Solar-Powered Revolution in India

India is experiencing a solar-powered revolution in agriculture. The Indian government has subsidized solar pumps to nearly 100,000 farmers, which now irrigate more than a million acres and have increased agricultural water use by more than a quarter. Despite these advancements, 16.3% of the Indian population still suffers from undernutrition.

Agriculture is essential for achieving India’s national food security goals and remains the backbone of the country’s economy, with more than 70% of the population involved in agriculture-related activities. Solar-powered wells are now playing a significant role in enhancing food stability across the country. By 2026, more than three million farmers are expected to use solar-powered wells. This technology is rapidly spreading among rural communities in water-scarce regions in India, Africa and beyond. These wells are used for agricultural purposes, provide drinking water and serve other needs within the communities.

Looking Ahead

Groundwater is not unlimited; it has dried up to 400 feet below the surface in some areas. Despite this, solar-powered wells offer a valuable temporary solution to farmers’ challenges. In the future, the government and farmers will need to develop more permanent solutions for irrigation. Although this innovation is not a permanent fix, it has advanced the country’s progress toward renewable energy. Today, farmers are embracing creativity and innovation, using solar power to address various aspects of farming.

– Sigrid Nyhammer

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

Photo: Pixabay