Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) Systems: A Pathway To Just Energy Transitions In Vulnerable Communities

As the world transitions towards 100% clean energy, addressing the needs of vulnerable communities is imperative. These communities, often in developing economies, disproportionately bear the brunt of fossil fuel reliance, lacking access to clean energy and facing severe socio-economic impacts. With approximately 620 million people lacking electricity access by 2030, decentralized renewable energy (DRE) systems, such as solar micro-grids and rooftop solar, offer affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions, especially in remote and impoverished regions. Implementation of DRE faces several challenges as centralized energy policies have led to significant public debt and economic disparity, with private diesel generators proliferating to fill the supply gap. It highlights the need for decentralized systems offering equitable and reliable electricity supply. Creating an ‘ecosystem’ for DRE integration is essential, involving tailored energy solutions, financing, skill development, and policy support. Promoting DRE in vulnerable communities includes investing in housing energy efficiency, providing affordable financing, supporting local technology innovation, and skill development. It’s essential to incorporate clean energy into broader economic recovery policies by creating jobs and improving business competitiveness through lower operating costs. For example, hybrid solar diesel microgrids could provide energy access and reduce fossil fuels dependency, optimize domestic resources, and create jobs. For G20, promotion of DRE in vulnerable communities aligns with global efforts to combat climate change, reduce inequality, and foster economic development. By focusing on DRE, G20 can contribute to achieving universal electricity access, mitigating carbon emissions, and advancing socio-economic progress in marginalized areas. This aligns with SDGs and Paris Agreement, offering a pathway to a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient global energy future.