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Spheres of Influence
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Renewable Energy: Empowering the Developing World Rebecca Clay Abstract
Photo credit: PhotoDisc About 30% of the global population currently lives without electricity. Most inhabit either remote rural areas of developing countries outside electrical power grids or urban areas with inadequate utility systems. As these countries develop and grow, their need for energy is also on the rise. How will that mounting demand be met? Many experts believe that developing countries could ultimately benefit by meeting their energy needs with renewable sources, most commonly wind, solar, and photovoltaic power, small hydroelectrical technology, and biomass. But the road to renewable energy in developing countries is often blocked by barriers such as high up-front costs, insufficient human and institutional infrastructure, relatively weak incentives, and inconsistent policies. Simple education on the benefits and mechanics of renewable energy will be an important first step toward overcoming these barriers.
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