The Hidden Energy Crisis: How Policies are Failing the World's Poor

Over two billion people worldwide are without access to clean, modern energy, which leads to drudgery, ill health and sometimes death. Although a lack of adequate energy affects people’s health and well-being, as well as their productive and educational capacities, addressing this deficit is a low priority for governments and donor agencies.

The Hidden Energy Crisis outlines why we have failed so far to extend energy access to the world’s poor, and suggests operating models that have greater potential to make a difference. It argues that meeting the basic needs of the world’s energy poor will not make a significant to global carbon emissions. However, it will take significant effort and finance from international donors, multinational and national governments to scale up successful pilot projects dramatically to make a significant impact on the poor.

This book presents a call to action to address the energy crisis. It should be read by policymakers in governments and donor agencies, as well as academics, students and staff of donor agencies.