The Challenge of Energy Access

Despite advancements in clean energy, energy poverty remains a critical issue, with approximately 1.1 billion people still lacking access to electricity and 2.7 billion relying on open fires for cooking. This severe lack of energy access undermines health, restricts educational opportunities, limits livelihood prospects, and traps millions in poverty. It is also linked to global warming and climate change as energy-poor communities continue to use inefficient and polluting biomass and fossil fuels for their lighting and cooking needs.

Global Energy Access Statistics:

• No Access to Electricity: 1.2 billion people

• No Access to Clean Cooking Fuels: 2.7 billion people

Regional Breakdown:

• Africa: 622 million without electricity; 728 million without clean cooking fuels

• Developing Asia: 620 million without electricity (300 million in India); 1.9 billion without clean cooking fuels (815 million in India)

Of the global energy poor, 95% reside in sub-Saharan Africa and developing Asia, with 84% living in rural areas. India is particularly affected, with nearly 300 million people lacking access to clean lighting alternatives.

Impact of Energy Poverty:

• Health: Exposure to smoke from open fires and kerosene lamps causes serious health issues, including respiratory conditions, lung cancer, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. The WHO reports over 4 million premature deaths annually from household air pollution, with over 50% of these deaths among children under 5 due to pneumonia caused by soot inhalation.

• Income & Livelihood: Limited energy access hinders economic opportunities and productivity, trapping communities in poverty.

• Education: Inadequate lighting restricts study time and educational progress, particularly for children.

• Women: Women and girls are disproportionately affected, facing health risks and increased burdens from collecting fuel and managing household energy.

• Environment: Continued reliance on inefficient and polluting fuels contributes to deforestation and climate change.

Light4Life’s Commitment: Light4Life is dedicated to addressing these challenges by providing innovative and affordable energy solutions tailored to user needs. We partner with governments, organizations, technology providers, and grassroots entities to promote access to clean energy, improve health outcomes, enhance educational opportunities, and empower communities.

Explore Solutions, Partners, and Stories of Change: Discover how Light4Life is making a difference through improved health, education, and livelihood opportunities. Meet our sponsors, learn about our innovative solutions, and read inspiring stories of change.

“Impacting Lives Through Improved Health, Better Education, Livelihood Opportunities, Enterprise Development, and Women’s Empowerment.”