For communities hard to reach, efficient electric lines and mini-grids could be transformative By Nicholas K. Smith, OPEC Fund TO THE PEOPLE POWER
W hen we think of development impact, images of brand new hospitals or shiny new schools may spring to mind. Building or upgrading transmission lines and off-grid systems may not have the visual oomph of those examples, but the role energy plays in sustainable development is foundational. Delivering that energy to places where it is unreliable or non-existent is one of the key drivers of sustainable development.
POPULATION WITHOUT ACCESS TO ELECTRICITY IN RURAL AREAS
Eastern Asia and Southeastern Asia
Central Asia and Southern Asia 76m
31m
Sub-Saharan Africa 440m
Western Asia and Northern Africa
Latin America and the Caribbean
Oceania
(millions)
Source: Tracking SDG 7: The Energy Progress Report , World Bank
8m
26m
4m
26
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