Bringing sustainable light to off-grid communities

In an effort to advance access to affordable, clean energy for the one in six people worldwide who lack electricity, Lighting Africa is on a mission to bring sustainable light to off-grid communities. Russel Sturm, the Global Head of the IFC Clean Energy and Resource Efficiency Unit, sheds light on the importance of tackling energy poverty and the transformative impact of modern energy solutions. Sturm highlights the dire situation faced by over 1.2 billion people globally who have no access to electric grids, or whose grid access is unreliable. These individuals often resort to costly and hazardous solutions like kerosene lamps, leading to health hazards and economic burdens. The existing market for lighting services in these underserved communities amounts to a staggering $30 billion annually, representing a significant opportunity for modern energy technologies. Sturm emphasizes the role of innovative solutions such as solar power, lithium-based batteries, and energy-efficient appliances like LED lights in revolutionizing the off-grid energy landscape. By bridging the gap between technology providers and untapped markets, organizations like the IFC can catalyze positive change and attract private sector investments. Through initiatives like Lighting Africa, which focuses on quality verification and standardization of products, over 24 million lighting solutions have been introduced into off-grid communities, paving the way for sustainable development and economic empowerment. The collaboration between the IFC and other World Bank Group partners underscores a strategic approach to fostering private sector engagement and driving innovation in the clean energy sector.