Has the situation of the ‘have‐nots’ improved?

Abstract

AbstractThe need to promote significant changes in the production and use of energy in the direction of cleaner fuels and greater energy efficiency provide opportunities to reduce this gap of energy consumption indices between the rich and poor, both in developing and developed countries. Wide disparities in the access and consumption levels of modern fuels and electricity still persist between developing and developed countries, in spite of increased international awareness and efforts. This paper shows that progress has been made in order to increase access to electricity and cleaner cooking fuels and this has improved the standards of living of poor population. However, more efforts are necessary in order to speed up the reduction of the energy gap and eliminate energy poverty. Greater investments in energy efficiency are an essential part of this strategy and some countries are pursuing it.This article is categorized under: Energy Policy and Planning > Economics and Policy Energy and Development > Climate and Environment