Per capita energy consumption in developing countries is less than one-fifth of that in the industrialized world. Extending reliable energy to the world's poor is crucial to encouraging economic progress and improving social welfare in developing countries. In light of rising global greenhouse gas emissions, achieving energy goals in a way that is environmentally sustainable is also essential. An innovative solar energy program underway in Bangladesh provides a promising example of a renewable energy solution.
The Bangladesh Solar Program
Of the over 1.5 billion people worldwide who do not have access to electricity, over 100 million reside in Bangladesh--approximately 80 percent of the country's population. The Bangladesh Solar Program is supported by the World Bank Group, which has increased financing for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects by 45 percent over 2005 levels. The project has already provided electricity to nearly 90,000 homes in rural Bangladesh, revolutionizing the lives of those involved. For example, solar power has enabled one teacher to run a home school from his sister's house. The Bangladesh Solar Program is one of many highlighted in the World Bank's new publication, Improving Lives.
Access to Electricity in Developing Countries
Source: United Nations, 2005. The Energy Challenge for Achieving the Millennium Development Goals
Global Trends in Renewable Energy
Globally, renewable energy is growing fast. The rates of development for renewable energy sources is far exceeding those of fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas. In 2006, wind and solar development grew by 20 and 40 percent respectively. A recent report released by Greenpeace and the European Renewable Energy Council, Energy [R]evolution: A Blueprint for Solving Global Warming, states that renewable energy can deliver half of the world's energy needs by 2050. Renewable energy will become increasingly important as the world attempts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to levels that scientists predict are necessary to curb global warming.
http://maps.grida.no/go/graphic/potential_renewable_energy_by_region
Map Designer: Philippe Rekacewicz, UNEP/GRID-Arendal
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International Energy Agency (IEA)
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