Per capita energy consumption

Submitted by Crystal Davis on Fri, 2007-01-26 19:32
Per capita energy consumption in developing countries is less than one-fifth of that in the industrialized world. Extending reliable energy to the world's poor is crucial to encouraging economic progress and improving social welfare in developing countries. In light of rising global greenhouse gas emissions, achieving energy goals in a way that is environmentally sustainable is also essential. An innovative solar energy program underway in Bangladesh provides a promising example of a renewable energy solution.
The Bangladesh Solar Program
Of the over 1.5 billion people worldwide who do not have access to electricity, over 100 million reside in Bangladesh--approximately 80 percent of the country's population. The Bangladesh Solar Program is supported by the World Bank Group, which has increased financing for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects by 45 percent over 2005 levels. The project has already provided electricity to nearly 90,000 homes in rural Bangladesh, revolutionizing the lives of those involved. For example, solar power has enabled one teacher to run a home school from his sister's house. The Bangladesh Solar Program is one of many highlighted in the World Bank's new publication, Improving Lives.