Guess what, world? Off-grid solar power is taking the spotlight! 🌟 According to a new report by the World Bank, off-grid solar solutions are the most effective way to bridge the electricity gap for nearly 400 million people worldwide without access to electricity. ⚡
The 2024 Off-Grid Solar Market Trends Report, unveiled in Nairobi 🇰🇪 during the Global Off-Grid Solar Forum and Expo 2024, highlights that off-grid solar has already provided 55% of new connections in sub-Saharan Africa between 2020 and 2022. That's huge! Especially considering over 80% of the unelectrified population lives there.
With around 685 million people globally still in the dark 💡, off-grid solar is a game-changer. By the end of 2023, more than 560 million people were powering their homes and businesses with grid solar solutions. Talk about a bright future! 🌞
Fan Qimiao, World Bank country director for Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, and Uganda, emphasized that bringing affordable, clean electricity to everyone is key to lifting people out of poverty on a livable planet. 🌍 He believes off-grid solar will be crucial in powering households, businesses, schools, and health centers, unlocking development across various sectors.
Sarah Malm, executive director at GOGLA, added that the off-grid solar industry has shown tremendous resilience despite challenging economic conditions. 💪 She noted that an investment of $21 billion is needed to create a financially sustainable sector that can reach the hardest-to-serve communities and help achieve energy access and climate goals. 🌿
As young people shaping the future, this is our chance to support and advocate for clean energy solutions that can change lives and protect our planet. Let's spread the word! 🌟
Reference(s):
Report shows off-grid solar provides ways to bridge electricity gap
cgtn.com
