Tag Archive for: Energy Poverty

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Powering Gender Equality: How Women Light the Way Out

Powering Gender EqualityThe World Economic Forum (WEF) defines energy poverty as the lack of access to safe, reliable, quality and environmentally secure energy services for the community. In Africa, 600 million people lack access to electricity, limiting access to information, communication, education and economic opportunities. The energy crisis increases reliance on traditional, unsafe energy sources for day-to-day use, making energy poverty one of the most pressing developmental challenges today.

Women, as primary caregivers and household energy managers, bear the brunt of energy poverty. Bound by societal norms, women and young girls are often responsible for household chores, including cooking and cleaning and reliance on unsafe energy sources leads to the deterioration of both physical and mental health. This often leaves girls and young children unable to leave the home, gain an education, become financially independent or contribute to the development of their communities.

Overall, this creates a chain of events that keeps households in poverty for generations and prevents them from reaching their full potential.

The Powering Gender Equality Project

In response to Africa’s energy poverty, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the Powering Gender Equality project in Ethiopia, Malawi, Madagascar and Eswatini in 2023. It is supported by the governments of Luxembourg and the Republic of Korea to enhance women’s economic empowerment while combating widespread energy poverty in Africa. The project aims to empower women-led networks and entrepreneurs to establish clean energy businesses, while encouraging energy policies that address gender disparities. 

Addressing Energy Poverty in Eswatini

In Eswatini, where women make up 52% of the population, the project has shown encouraging early results and strong potential. It trained 50 women entrepreneurs from rural communities in using sustainable energy for their homes and businesses, including solar, biogas and waste-to-fuel technologies, as well as essential business skills such as planning, marketing and management. They were also provided with clean energy starter kits, including solar panels, to launch and expand their businesses.

Partnering with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, the project also developed an early-stage strategy for gender-responsive policies and capacity-building. The aim is to improve gender equality in the energy sector and create a more inclusive environment for energy planning. The trained women plan to establish and expand their businesses, power their homes, strengthen food security, send their children to school and build a sustainable future.

Addressing Energy Poverty in Madagascar

Only 2% of Madagascar’s population has access to clean cooking energy, while the rest relies on unsafe sources such as biomass and firewood. With more than three-fourths of the population living in poverty, many are especially vulnerable to this energy crisis, which contributes to serious health issues, rising pollution levels and deforestation in the region. Here, the gender-equality project trained 15 women in installing and repairing solar hub systems and biogas technologies and in establishing sustainable businesses.

UNDP also worked with local community leaders to raise awareness of these issues and build support for women’s businesses and their involvement in the energy sector. After the training, the women were provided seed funding to sell solar kits and components or to manage nanogrids, promoting sustainable energy within their communities.

The Future

Ultimately, the Powering Gender Equality project demonstrates the untapped potential of women and offers hope for combating energy poverty in Africa and worldwide. It also advances Sustainable Development Goal 7, which aims to ensure access to clean, affordable energy for all. With training, support and policy influence, empowered women can rise to the challenge and help power their households and communities, truly lighting the way out of the energy poverty trap.

– Nishtha Mahendra Kumar

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

Photo: Flickr

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The Emergence of Energy Poverty in Madrid

Poverty in MadridThe capital of Spain, Madrid, is a major metropolitan area with around 6.8 million people. Known for its clean streets, bustling shopping on the Gran Via and vibrant greenery, the city attracts tourists from across the world. However, below its surface are serious problems of poverty, climate change and energy.

As the city experiences more severe weather in summer and winter, families struggle with energy poverty, or the inability to afford basic energy necessities such as heating and cooling. This term does not only mean being unable to afford high energy costs, but also deliberate choices to lower energy usage to save money, known as “hidden energy poverty.”

Energy Poverty in Madrid: An Overview

Poverty itself has moved in concerning directions in the capital. Madrid continues to be a strong economic center, but the government often falls short in providing assistance for those in low-income households. About 1.4 million people live in material deprivation, or a lack of ability to afford basic necessities like food or heating. Though air conditioning is usually viewed as a consumer good, people such as Yamina Saheb, a professor at Sciences Po in Paris, push for it to be considered a human right. Madrid’s case stands in contrast to the rest of Spain, where poverty rates are falling. A rise in general poverty has the natural outcome of increasing energy poverty.

The city’s most impoverished neighborhoods, those with the most energy poverty, did not come to be as they are by chance. Puente de Vallecas, for instance, was for decades a shantytown, a poor, small settlement on the outskirts of Madrid. However, in the 1950s, it was incorporated into the municipality of the capital. Currently, the neighborhood remains one of the poorest, revealing that wealth disparities and energy inequalities arise as a result of complex historical factors.

The Link Between Poverty and Energy

The inability to afford access to energy almost exclusively harms those in poverty. Madrid health professor Julio Diaz Jimenez found in a 2020 paper that heat waves cause mortality in three of the lowest-income districts of the city. In 2024, Save the Children stated that one-third of Spanish children were unable to maintain an adequate temperature at home. These figures serve as warning signs for the region’s future, as struggles with extreme heat will continue to affect those in poverty.

Obstacles to Eliminating Energy Poverty in Madrid

Energy poverty in Madrid is worsened by infrastructure and housing that are unprepared to cope with these climate extremes. Last year, Spain’s energy grid faltered during a time of high energy usage, causing blackouts in regions as far as Portugal and France. Though the blackout is not attributed directly to climate change, it signals that without further updates, Spain and its capital will be unable to support the higher energy usage required to maintain comfortable levels in homes.

Housing also remains in need of renovations. According to Professor Neville Li of Saint Louis University’s Madrid campus, the city’s housing is “designed to trap heat because of the hot summers.” Due to increased weather variability, winters are not only getting warmer but also more extreme. As a result, Madrid often experiences both extremely hot summers and cold winters. With more unpredictable weather, families struggle to maintain an adequate temperature.

Energy Savings

A study by researchers Roberto Barella and Jose Carlos Romero at Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid points to the benefits of shallow home renovations, such as fridge replacement or LED installation. After looking at 10 provinces of Spain, they found that Madrid saved the most from theoretical energy savings, about 8.41%. The study shows how, with only small changes, Madrid households can reduce their energy usage. This would not only save families hundreds of euros per month but also allow them to live in more comfortable conditions.

In addition, the issue of “green gentrification” worsens extreme heat for those who cannot afford cooling. In recent years, the capital has lost tree cover disproportionately in poorer areas. The “urban heat island” effect makes some areas, such as Puente de Vallecas, some of the hottest in the city. Despite being one of the most tree-covered cities in the world, lower-income neighborhoods have borne the brunt of tree loss.

Looking Ahead

According to Li, Spain’s energy is “relatively cheap,” in part due to its significant renewable industry, such as wind and hydroelectric power. This gives the government more room to implement tax cuts that benefit lower-income families. In March 2026, the Spanish government announced cuts, including those tied to energy. These measures protect families as prices across the region spike.

In addition, several groups have emerged to support those suffering from high temperatures and energy insufficiency. Concerned citizens have come together through initiatives such as the Sustainable Vallekas Collective, which raises awareness about unequal temperatures in the neighborhood.

Energy poverty is a serious problem in Madrid, especially as temperatures warm due to the changing climate. However, the government and citizens are taking action to address its consequences. Through home renovations, tree planting, tax cuts and community advocacy, the issue is being addressed step by step.

– Ben Anderson

Ben is based in Madrid, Spain and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Renewable Energy in Tuvalu: Towards 100% Energy Independence

Renewable Energy in TuvaluIn 2015, the United Nations established 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with goal seven aimed at ensuring “access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.” Behind this goal lies the widespread issue of energy poverty, or the lack of access to reliable and clean energy due to poor infrastructure or high costs. Energy poverty disproportionately affects developing nations, where it both reflects and reinforces existing poverty. One promising solution is to implement renewable energy, which lowers energy costs, improves energy reliability and supports sustainable growth. Over the past decade, Tuvalu, one of the world’s most energy-impoverished nations, has emerged as a leader in this movement, with a goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2030. Here is more information about renewable energy in Tuvalu.

What Is Tuvalu?

Tuvalu is a small Polynesian island nation in the Pacific Ocean, composed of four reef islands and five atolls and totaling just 16 square miles. With a population of approximately 11,733, Tuvalu is known for its rich Polynesian culture, stunning marine environment and advocacy.

Tuvalu is also the 46th poorest country in the world, according to the 2024 World Economic Report. Despite some ocean economic activity, Tuvalu relies heavily on international aid to meet its basic needs, like water, sanitation, transportation, energy and health care.

Energy Poverty in Tuvalu

One of Tuvalu’s most pressing economic challenges is its dependence on imported fossil fuels. In 2021, 96% of Tuvalu’s energy came from imported fossil fuels, which consumed more than 70% of the nation’s budget. High energy costs and poor infrastructure mean many Tuvaluans spend large portions of their income on unreliable and unhealthy energy sources. This not only reinforces cycles of poverty, but also burdens the country’s health, education and clean water services and its economic development.

During the 2009 Conference of the Parties (COP15), Tuvalu’s President Feleti Teo highlighted this cost: “Oil prices in Tuvalu will keep on rising even above the current levels of 3-400% above world prices…this is simply unrealistic and unsustainable for our poor islands.”

Why Renewable Energy in Tuvalu Matters

Renewable energy provides Tuvalu with a path toward sustainability, economic resilience and energy independence. By implementing 100% solar, wind and other renewables, Tuvalu could eliminate the need for imported fuel, cut energy costs, create jobs and stabilize energy access. Recognizing this, Tuvalu set a national goal to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030 and has made already made some major progress thanks to international aid from global partners.

Progress Towards 100% Renewable Energy in Tuvalu

In 2023, Tuvalu celebrated the installation of a 184 solar panel Floating Solar Photovoltaic system on Tafua Pond in Funafuti. This system will generate 174.2 megawatts per hour of electricity each year (2% of Funafuti’s energy demand), reduce Tuvalu’s fossil fuel consumption by 41,100 liters per year and save the nation approximately $68,000 USD per year.

In May 2024, Tuvalu completed its first large-scale solar farm and a two-megawatt-hour battery storage system on its main island, Funafuti. Spanning several hectares of land and rooftop and utilizing advanced photovoltaic technology, the project significantly reduces Funafuti’s diesel dependency and improves energy reliability. With this success, the government and its partners are actively developing additional solar and wind projects to diversify energy sources. 

The Tuvalu government, in collaboration with the Tuvalu Climate Action Network, has also launched education and training initiatives to raise awareness about the benefits of renewable energy and prepare locals with the skills needed to maintain and operate the renewable energy systems.

The Role of International Support

Tuvalu relies heavily on international financial aid to fund its renewable energy projects. For example, grants from the World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), Global Environment Facility and International Renewable Energy Agency made the solar projects possible.

Brian Webb, Director of Sustainability at the College of Wooster, visited Tuvalu in 2024  to prepare for a study-abroad program focused on Pacific island sustainability. In an interview with The Borgen Project, he commented on the relatively low cost of helping Tuvalu transition to clean energy: “It would not take very many million dollars to put them 100 percent on clean energy….Elon Musk spends more in a day than it would cost to fully outfit Tuvalu with clean energy. That is the sad part about it.”

Despite years of promises at global summits like COP15, Webb says, “It is a lot of talk and not a lot of action… Most countries that have the political means to make a positive impact are simply not doing that.” 

Teo’s call for a physical UN presence in Tuvalu during COP15 still resonates today:  “The UN cannot continue to be a ‘faceless’ actor on MDGs and sustainable development.”

Why the US Should Act

Investing in renewable energy in Tuvalu poses not only a humanitarian imperative but also offers a geopolitical opportunity for the U.S. in the Pacific. As Webb explained: “Countries like the U.S. talk a lot about the danger of China’s growing influence… For a relatively small investment, the U.S. could support Pacific nations and counter China’s reach in the region.” However, U.S. support would likely improve regional alliances, demonstrate U.S. leadership on poverty issues and foster long-term strategic returns from the Pacific. 

Renewable Energy to Economic Self-Sufficiency

The transition to renewable energy in Tuvalu provides a road map towards resilience and self-sufficiency and serves as a guide for other developing island nations. As Teo stated: “By harnessing the power of the sun, we are taking control of our energy needs and setting an example for other small island nations facing similar challenges.”

– Dylan Kretchmar

Dylan is based in Granville, OH, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Top 3 Causes of Energy Poverty in Cyprus

Energy Poverty in CyprusEnergy poverty in Cyprus, an island in the Mediterranean, is at an all-time high. Energy poverty is when a household struggles to access reliable and affordable energy to fulfill daily needs such as heating, cooling, cooking and lighting.

More than 50% of the population in Cyprus experiences energy poverty. These are the top three reasons for energy poverty in Cyprus and ongoing solutions to bring affordable energy to the island.

Energy Isolation

Cyprus is the only country within the European Union (EU) that is not connected to energy networks. This isolation results in relying on imported fuel to power the country. Because importing fuel is expensive, the energy cost for consumers is high.

About 85% of Cyprus’s energy comes from imported oil and costs 35.7 PPS per 100 kilowatt-hours of electricity. Other countries in the EU pay as little as 14.33 PPS or 15.4 PPS.

Rising Costs of Living

Energy poverty in Cyprus is worsened by the high cost of living relative to the average monthly salary. More than half of Cypriots earn less than $2,214 per month, while apartment rental costs range from $821 to $1,994.

After covering expenses such as groceries, health insurance, car payments and student loan debt, little remains in household budgets for high electricity bills. Nearly 20% of Cypriots report being unable to afford to heat their homes.

Poorly Insulated Houses

Most homes and apartments are not properly insulated, creating difficulties in heating and cooling those spaces thoroughly. Electric bills are inevitably higher if homes cannot properly maintain a comfortable temperature without constant heater or air conditioning system interference.

Continuous use of heating or cooling systems also increases the wear and tear on those devices, leading to added repair costs. Health issues may arise for those who cannot afford to heat or cool their homes properly. Heat exhaustion, dehydration and even asthma attacks are possible.

Solutions to Energy Poverty in Cyprus

The Cypriot government is making progress toward solving energy poverty in Cyprus. It is also working to reduce the price of electricity through the Great Sea Interconnector and the Solar Energy for All Program. The Great Sea Interconnector is designed to electronically connect Cyprus, Greece and Israel to share power grids and access.

This plan would lower the price of electricity and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels to meet energy needs. Electricity bills in Cyprus are expected to decrease significantly. Providing an accessible path to clean, renewable energy and eliminating Cyprus’s energy isolation will improve the quality of life for Cypriots.

The submarine electrical connection is anticipated to be one of the largest power transmission projects in the world. Cyprus will first be connected with Crete, a Greek island. After that connection is built, Israel will be linked in. The project is on track to be completed by the end of 2025.

The Solar Energy For All program assists with the funding necessary to install solar panels. With a budget of more than $35 million, the program will help 6,000 individuals afford the installation. Using solar panels will reduce reliance on imported oil, along with the price of electricity for users.

With both the Great Sea Interconnector and the Solar For All Project, the electrical costs for Cypriots will undoubtedly decrease soon. 

– Sydney Uhl

Sydney is based in Vancouver, WA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Solar Microgrids in Uganda Powering Progress

Renewable Energy in UgandaUganda, a landlocked country in East Africa, is one of the most impoverished nations in the world. More than 40% of its citizens live below the national poverty line, most living in rural areas and acting as subsistence farmers. Many obstacles hinder poverty reduction efforts in the region, including low electricity access.

Poor and unequal access to electricity prevents rural residents from having core services like refrigeration, the ability to study in the evening or even powered medical tools. This lack perpetuates poverty through low productivity, poor health and limited education.

The introduction of solar microgrids in Uganda provides efficient and more affordable methods of increasing access to electricity. Here is some information on how solar microgrids operate in Uganda.

Background

In rural Uganda, studies estimate that 26 million people live without electricity as the grids are often limited to towns. This is partly because grid expansion is expensive due to long distances and low density. Hence, off-grid solar microgrids have become a cheaper option that is much quicker to install.

Solar microgrids are localized energy systems incorporating features like solar panels, batteries or small distribution lines. In Uganda, they have been used to great success. For example, in The Lamwo District, 25 solar mini-grids provide electricity to more than 15,000 residents and 100 businesses. In Kiwumu, a 40 kW system provides electricity to 360 homes, 60 companies and a maize mill. On Bunjako Island, eight grids serve more than 3,300 people.

Microgrids as a Tool To Reduce Poverty

Investing in Uganda’s solar microgrids has been crucial in bolstering poverty reduction efforts. It has increased the income for rural Ugandans as it provides a boost for buildings like shops, mills, salons and charging kiosks. In Kiwumu, businesses saw an increase of 68% in their revenue. This also helps women’s businesses as they grow with powered sewing machines and food processors.

In the health care sector, solar microgrids have also made an impact. There is now proper refrigeration for vaccines in the regions with these microgrids. Hospitals can now better provide nighttime emergency care. Likewise, diagnostic equipment is now powered more reliably.

Solar microgrids in Uganda have also improved the education effort in rural areas. Evening study is now possible with the lighting produced by electricity. Students and learners in the region can also now use computers and printers more consistently. This has also bolstered efforts to provide digital literacy training.

Conclusion

Some barriers to expanding solar microgrids in the region remain, such as complex regulations and licensing delays. However, more support must be given as expanded microgrid access for rural Uganda reduces energy poverty. It also means the growth of small businesses, better health care and stronger education outcomes: all crucial features in the fight against poverty.

– Seun Adekunle

Seun is based in Scotch Plains, NJ, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Positive Progress for Renewable Energy in Mauritius

Renewable Energy in MauritiusRenewable energy in Mauritius faces major advancements in the coming years. The island is located off the East coast of the African continent, and is home to 1.2 million people. Of those people, more than 80% agree on the negative effects that energy gained from burning fossil fuels has on their quality of life. Transitioning to renewable energy will combat these negative effects.

Fossil Fuels Worsen Quality of Life for Mauritians 

More than 80% of the country’s energy comes from imported fossil fuels. Greenhouse gases become trapped in the atmosphere through burning fossil fuel, and affect weather patterns. Mauritius feels this through flooding, tropical storms, coastline erosion, changing tides and rising temperatures. Natural disasters and drastic changes to weather patterns affect low-income communities more drastically than others. These individuals typically do not have the resources to prepare for or recover from these disasters as they occur. The average monthly salary is $1,013, with the lowest-earning Mauritians living off of about $250. Many work in tourism-related professions and outsourcing roles such as IT support and the manufacturing industry. The downside is the unpredictable demand for these jobs and the resulting unreliable income.

Energy Poverty

Steep costs for basic necessities like heat and electricity for cooking exacerbate the struggles of those already experiencing energy poverty. Energy poverty describes a situation in which someone does not have access to reliable, safe and affordable energy to meet their daily needs. A $250 monthly budget does not leave much room for expensive electric bills. The cost of importing fossil fuels to Mauritius drives up the price of power for consumers. The price of electricity for residential areas is MUR 6.140 per kWh, or 0.135. That is about 6% more than the average price of electricity in Africa.

Government Plans Pave the Way for Renewable Energy Use

As of 2019, the Ministry of Public Utilities enacted the Renewable Energy Roadmap 2030. It contains plans and proposals for various renewable energy programs, as well as objectives for total renewable energy use for the entire country. The Renewable Energy Roadmap strives for renewable energy in Mauritius to be 35% of the country’s total power source by 2025. They are on track to meet this goal at the end of the year.

The Roadmap also includes goals of severing reliance on burning coal by 2027, as well as 60% of Mauritius’ energy coming from renewable sources by 2030. Strategies such as investing in solar energy and biomass projects are outlined, as well as careful coordination to ensure this energy will be accessible on all levels: households, commercial and industrial use.

Mauritius is well underway with its renewable energy goals. In 2021, a 14-Megawatt Grid-Scale Battery Energy Storage System funded by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) finished construction. The $5 million storage system is equipped to stabilize the electrical grid frequency, furthering the capabilities of renewable energy in Mauritius.

Solar Energy Helps Mauritius Reach Energy Goal and Provides Jobs

The hot climate and reliable sunlight make solar energy an ideal candidate for renewable energy in Mauritius. About 10,000 rooftop solar systems have been approved by the Central Electricity Board and the Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities. The installation prevented 15,000 tons of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere. Not only do the solar systems provide tangible progress towards the Renewable Energy Roadmap goal, but offer reduced electricity bills for the Mauritians who have participated in the project. This allows them to spend more of their hard-earned money on food and other necessities. The renewable energy efforts will create 7,000 jobs, stimulating the economy and providing employment opportunities for Mauritians.

Renewable Energy Is the Future

Mauritius’ steady advancements towards renewable energy demonstrate the government’s dedication to contributing to a greener planet and access to affordable power. The country is on track to meet its renewable energy goals for the coming years. Each additional project will continue to improve the lives of Mauritians.

– Sydney Uhl

Sydney is based in Vancouver, WA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Ebbs and Flows: Rise of Poverty in France

Poverty in FranceFrance has historically been a paragon of development for the world. Historically, it has prospered economically, culturally, militarily and internationally. Despite all of this, despite the grandeur of the country’s past, France has struggled with poverty. For centuries, the poverty rate diminished, dwindled and sank between the folds of society. However, as of 2025, the issue has reemerged.

The poverty rate in France has climbed to 15.4%, the highest recorded since 1996. Wealth disparity is also widening, with a striking 20% gap between the richest and the most impoverished. This marks a steady rise from 14.4% in 2022. In 2025 alone, around 665,000 people fell into poverty. Poverty has reemerged in this developed nation, lingering like a persistent spectre of domestic hardship.

Context

The median standard of living has stagnated and relative prosperity persists despite inflation, governance and quality of life shifts. Meanwhile, the neediest segment of France has faced a steady decline in living conditions over the past decade, closely linked to cuts in housing benefits. Child poverty has also surged, with one in five children now living in destitution, largely due to housing reforms that disproportionately impacted single-parent households. In 2021, 22.8% of children were at risk of social exclusion, which remains unchanged. Many of these issues are the residual effects of policies enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

These issues disproportionately affect migrants and their children compared to native French citizens. This disparity is primarily attributed to limited educational attainment, as many immigrants lack the formal qualifications held by their native counterparts. Additionally, scholars suggest that persistent poverty among immigrants is partly driven by language barriers, particularly the inability to communicate effectively in French. However, this issue extends beyond France’s immigrant population. Anyone below the poverty line faces the harsh reality of soaring inflation outpacing stagnant wages.

In addition, the Russian-Ukrainian War and subsequent European sanctions on Russian oil have driven up energy prices across France, with devastating consequences for many residents. As utility costs climb, more people cannot cover their bills, leading to evictions or entrapment in cycles of debt. Manuel Domergue, Director of Studies at the Foundation for Housing the Disadvantaged, noted: “Electricity and gas cuts for nonpayment are skyrocketing, the number of people who say they are cold in their homes has almost doubled and we are seeing a sharp rise in evictions.”

Solutions

In 2022, France passed a law raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, which worsened elderly poverty. However, numerous French political parties have called for repealing or reversing this law to ease the burden on an already vulnerable population. Alongside proposals to lower the retirement age, many parties also advocate expanding benefits for retirees. These initiatives aim to align pension payments more closely with the absolute poverty threshold.

Furthermore, in November 2024, France’s new minimum wage policy came into effect, raising the Salaire Minimum Interprofessionnel de Croissance (SMIC) by 2%. This adjustment aimed to offset the rising cost of living and rampant inflation, particularly affecting low-income earners. The government emphasized that the increase was part of a broader effort to narrow the income gap and strengthen social protections for vulnerable workers.

To address the surge in energy prices, the Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) implemented a regulation to reduce the electricity sales tax. This measure is expected to lower monthly utility costs for a broad segment of French households.

Conclusion

France is suffering from increased poverty for several reasons, but all hope is not lost. With a robust social welfare and security foundation, France can alleviate these issues through substantial reform and reinforcement. The battle against poverty is being fought within the halls of the National Assembly and Senate by many political parties. Reaffirming historic social welfare policies will relieve many issues.

– Jackson Hufman

Jackson is based in Glenwood, MD, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy in Slovenia: Ending the Energy Poverty Gap

Renewable Energy in SloveniaMany families suffer from a wide gap in access to energy to properly support themselves and their homes. Presently, Slovenia is currently working on engaging hydro-energy in their nationwide effort to redistribute access to both sustainable and efficient energy for their lower-income citizens. Here is information about renewable energy in Slovenia.

An Overview of Renewable Energy in Slovenia

As an overview, one-third of Slovenia’s energy comes from hydroelectric sources, with the other two-thirds coming from renewable energy in Slovenia that encourages a lowering of greenhouse gas emissions.

Utilizing the power of the Sava River, rushing water powers the hydro-electric plants to become renewable energy in Slovenia. Indeed, along the banks of the Sava River, is home to many small and large plant chains that all work together to produce energy leading into a single unit. In total, there are four Slovenian plants generating power on these banks to effectively and, most importantly, sustainably power the nation.

Not only are these plants and renewable sources that have spread all over the nation sustainably generating Slovenia; these renewable sources have led to the opportunity for many low-income families that did not have access to energy to power their homes properly. 

Energy Poverty in Slovenia

As it stood in 2023, the percentage of Slovenian families that experts considered energy-poor households was at 7.2%, with an even larger number of 41 million people across Europe unable to power their homes. Within a faction of the Slovenian government, the Eco Fund as it is noted, promotes projects that invest in support of lower-income families to gain energy access in their homes sustainably; which includes the promotion of hydro-electric plants. The Eco Fund looks to support projects across Slovenia that reduce carbon and greenhouse emissions while reducing energy waste.

The tools the Eco Fund plan to utilize include properly insulating roofs, installation of energy-efficient windows and replacement of heating devices, along with the spread of renewable energy in Slovenia broadly. All of these tools give lower-income families the chance to both save money and power.

Using these plans to efficiently power the nation, the Eco Fund looks to cut energy-poverty almost in half. With the investment of proper tools in lower-income homes, the Eco Fund seeks to reach by 2026 the use of renewable energy in Slovenia to almost 8,000 homes within lower-income communities.

Looking Ahead

Looking into the future, it is clear that the chance for Slovenia to reduce improper energy use and the energy poverty gap within its nation is something that will be reduced soon. Slovenia and the Eco Fund work to not only reduce energy-use but the poverty gap that is present in their nation to broadly expand chances for citizens to live better lives. 

In a broader lens, Slovenia’s example of changes with its Eco Fund offers a look into the reduction of energy cost and carbon and greenhouse emissions that should be more accessible for all in the future. Furthermore, this investment gives a look into how being sustainable is a well-rounded opportunity that helps the poverty gap for lower-income families and helps countries become less energy inefficient as a whole.

– Angelina Tas

Angelina is based in Cleveland, OH, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Innovations in Poverty Eradication in Nicaragua

Poverty Eradication in NicaraguaIn 2006, Nicaragua had 50% of its population living in poverty. The Latin American country is one of the poorest in the region, characterized by low income and a substantial food deficit. The country is susceptible to natural disasters, including earthquakes, hurricanes, floods and droughts, which significantly impact the primary livelihood of the population working in agriculture. These disasters corrupt crops and restrict access to food, creating a recurrent cycle of poverty. Here is information about poverty and poverty eradication in Nicaragua.

Energy Crisis in Nicaragua

Between 2005 and 2006, Nicaragua experienced an energy crisis that resulted in repeated electricity supply interruptions lasting 8 to 12 hours. This crisis was primarily due to a deficit in generation capacity, which stemmed from limited growth in installed capacity, the long-term unavailability of existing large power plants due to extended maintenance periods and dry winters that reduced output from hydropower plants. Rising oil prices worsened the situation, which in turn increased the costs of oil derivatives, including transportation fuels and fuels used for electricity generation, such as fuel oil and diesel. As a consequence, electricity prices also rose significantly. The energy distribution company incurred substantial transmission and distribution losses but was unable to pass these costs on to customers, resulting in a severe liquidity issue for the company.

Food Insecurity in Nicaragua

With approximately 45% of its population living on less than $1 per day, aid organizations have identified food insecurity as a critical development issue in the country. This challenge is primarily due to limited access to affordable food rather than an actual shortage of food supply. During the Global Food Crisis from 2006 to 2008 and in light of ongoing fluctuations in global markets, the prices of essential food items in Nicaragua have increased considerably, resulting in heightened price instability. Consequently, it is estimated that nearly 30% of the Nicaraguan population suffers from undernourishment, with women and children being particularly vulnerable to the impacts of food insecurity and undernutrition.

The Nicaraguan people elected the Sandinista National Liberation Front, whose priorities included reducing poverty, focusing on education, providing free health care and improving community infrastructure. The party addressed these goals with government programs and global organizational support.

Sustainable Electrification and Renewable Energy

Since 2007, the government has focused its attention on poverty eradication in Nicaragua through national development. In 2010, the SNLF launched the National Program for Sustainable Electrification and Renewable Energy (PENSER) framework, aiming to provide access to modern and endurable electricity services.

The project received funding from the OPEC Fund for International Development and various development finance institutions. The funds strived to improve existing power structures through repairs and upgrades, enhancing energy access. The project’s extended purpose included providing employment opportunities and ensuring stable electricity access to households in rural communities. Furthermore, the scheme aimed to reduce energy costs for goods and people, thereby improving access to essential services, including health, education and social welfare.

The World Food Programme

A fifth of Nicaraguan households live in poverty, and nearly 7% of residents live in extreme poverty. The World Food Programme (WFP) has been working in Nicaragua since 1971, supporting projects that promote food protection, nutrition, livelihood repair and sustainable market access. The WFP provides hot meals for more than 180,000 students through the National School Feeding Program of the Ministry of Education, as well as ready-to-eat food kits during disasters. The organization supports the development of smallholder farmers through sustainable food systems. It helps farmers improve their economic resilience through crop diversification and increase access to insurance, which in turn enhances their climate resilience. 

A lack of food stability is linked to the growing climate disasters plaguing Nicaragua, including droughts, hurricanes, earthquakes and floods. Therefore, the WFP’s continued contribution to the country, which relies heavily on agriculture, provides support and funds to key social and health services.

Looking Forward

According to the World Food Programme, poverty eradication efforts in Nicaragua have decreased poverty by 25.1% in 2023. Since the implementation of the PENSAR and WFP contribution, the country has the best roads and hospitals in the region, a 70% reduction in maternal mortality rates, and ranks number one in the world in educational attainment for women and girls, as well as sixth for overall gender equality. The project’s growth continues to improve the lives of the Nicaraguan people and the communities in which they reside.

– Phoebe Guildford

Phoebe is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Energy Poverty in Portugal

energy poverty in portugalPortugal’s household energy costs have gradually increased. Yet in 2017, the percentage of households unable to keep houses adequately warm was almost three times higher than the EU average. Low household income, low energy performance and high energy costs contribute greatly to energy poverty in Portugal. Many people lack the financial resources to access adequate energy services making it difficult to maintain home ownership. The Directorate-General for Energy and Geology (DGE) estimates that between 1.9 million and 3 million people are in energy poverty in Portugal, while 660,000 to 740,000 live in “severe” energy poverty. The Portuguese National Long-Term Energy Poverty Mitigation Strategy was approved in early 2024. This means these four major initiatives have been implemented to eradicate energy poverty in Portugal by 2050.

Increasing Energy Performance and Access

A 74-year-old who lives with his wife in Portugal in a social housing apartment said “I cannot keep it [the fan] on for long because it also uses a lot [of electricity]…” DGE aims to apply renovation, and replacement, with new or efficient equipment and sustainable technologies and materials to increase energy performance. As a result, it could help homes stay warm, not compromising the well-being and health of households. This prioritization of efficiency could provide lower energy costs, allowing households to focus on careers and education.

Those living in energy poverty in Portugal will have access to essential energy services, and new forms of energy production. For example, renewable energy communities allow for energy sharing. This would ease the financial strain on households suffering from energy poverty in Portugal as the entire community assists with the payment of energy bills, according to DGE. Independent households living in energy poverty can no longer have to sacrifice time and resources to meet high energy costs through collective energy communities, therefore improving their quality of life and financial stability.

Raising Awareness and Reducing Consumption

By promoting educational campaigns and providing tools for energy efficiency measures, awareness could lead to monitoring of energy consumption and improved energy practices. An example of this was EDP’s “Your Energy: Show Your Power!” initiative that took place in Lisbon for students. It raised awareness of living conditions in homes that suffered energy poverty in the country and energy sustainability through interactive lessons and activities.

Reducing the burden of energy consumption focuses on price support mechanisms and guiding principles. It would lead to a bigger increase in household disposable income as the price of energy will remain affordable, regardless of the consumer’s geographical, economic or social situation, according to DGE. This supports a higher quality of life as households living in energy poverty in Portugal no longer have to sacrifice time and resources to meet high energy costs.

Energy Poverty in Portugal: The Future

The Portuguese National Long-Term Energy Poverty Mitigation Strategy discusses four strong strategies to combat energy poverty in Portugal. By increasing household energy efficiency, this initiative aims to reduce energy poverty in Portugal by replacing old technology with newer, efficient equipment. Universal access to energy services makes energy much more accessible to people who live in rural areas or in socio-economic situations that suffer from energy poverty. Raising awareness of energy poverty in the country is also a significant aspect of fighting energy poverty as it educates people on better energy practices and energy consumption monitoring. And lastly, affordable prices support a higher quality of life and financial stability for households who suffer from energy poverty in Portugal because of expensive costs.

– Chelsey Saya McLeod

Chelsey is based in Southampton, Hampshire, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash