Energy

Two billion people lack reliable access to electricity. That means one fifth of the world’s schools, hospitals and homes are often in the dark. How can everyone get access to clean energy without hastening climate change? These are issues that our energy reporting explored. 

We’re no longer actively reporting on this topic. To follow what we’re working on, sign up for The Discourse newsletter here.

Expecting poverty, Eric Bombicino found beauty and generosity in a remote First Nation town

When reporter Eric Bombicino flew to Pikangikum, he expected to be greeted with crushing poverty. What he experienced, instead, was a community bound together by its connection to the land and culture of quiet humility.

Latest in Energy
Coal isn’t good for humanity, but renewables aren’t the only answer to energy poverty

Given existing technologies, expanding access to electricity almost always increases CO2 emissions. There are real tradeoffs between addressing poverty and climate change.

Sub-Saharan Africa Access to Energy Research Brief
How Africa could leapfrog fossil fuels to clean energy alternatives

There are multiple choices ahead for Africa thanks to the rapid rise of clean energy. Compared to the fossil-fuelled status quo, clean energy has the ability to distribute power more equitably, provide cheaper energy and create many more jobs.

Can we provide energy to all without hastening climate change?

While many believe that providing energy to the world’s poorest is impossible without further frying the planet, a growing subset of energy experts argue that providing the most basic level of access has negligible effects on climate change.

South Asia Access to Energy Research Brief
Can Nepal defeat its deepening energy crisis?

Unable to harness its immense hydro potential and squeezed by a powerful neighbour, can Nepal find a way to provide reliable, clean energy to its most vulnerable citizens?

How solar energy is helping Cameroon tackle poverty

More than 80 per cent of Cameroon’s 22 million inhabitants live on less than US$1 a day and cannot afford access to reliable, affordable power. What will it take to bring clean energy to the masses?

Meet the journalists reporting for the Access to Energy Journalism Fellowship
About Power Struggle