Closing the Global Energy Gap: Insights from the Global Off-Grid Solar Forum

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Nearly 770 million people worldwide still lack access to electricity, with most of those affected residing in Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). This staggering statistic underscores the urgency of addressing global energy inequities, as communities without reliable energy face enormous challenges in accessing healthcare, clean water, education, and economic opportunities. Off-grid solar technology is emerging as a critical solution, helping to bridge the energy gap for underserved communities and contributing to the broader goal of sustainable development.

The Global Off-Grid Solar Forum: A Catalyst for Change

The 2024 Global Off-Grid Solar Forum and Expo, held in Nairobi, Kenya, served as a key platform for global stakeholders to exchange knowledge and explore solutions for expanding energy access. The event, organized by the Global Off-Grid Lighting Association (GOGLA), in partnership with the World Bank and International Finance Corporation (IFC), brought together over 800 participants, including policymakers, business leaders, investors, and non-governmental organizations. These experts and innovators are driving the global off-grid solar revolution, helping to bring light and power to the most remote and underserved areas.

Sponsors like The Rockefeller Foundation, Sun King, BioLite, and Water and Energy for Food were instrumental in framing the discussions around how off-grid solutions can be scaled to meet the energy needs of millions. Their contributions reflect a broader commitment to addressing energy access challenges in alignment with global humanitarian and development goals.

Sponsors like The Rockefeller Foundation, Sun King, BioLite, and Water and Energy for Food were instrumental in framing the discussions around how off-grid solutions can be scaled to meet the energy needs of millions. Their contributions reflect a broader commitment to addressing energy access challenges in alignment with global humanitarian and development goals.

Key sponsors shared valuable insights at the event:

  • The Rockefeller Foundation: “Energy access is a foundation for development. Our goal is to accelerate access to clean and affordable energy solutions, transforming the lives of millions and enabling communities to thrive.” (Rockefeller Foundation at the Global Off-Grid Solar Forum)

  • Sun King: “Providing off-grid solar energy isn’t just about light; it’s about empowering entire communities. From homes to schools and businesses, our solutions provide a pathway to progress and opportunity.” (Sun King at the event)

  • BioLite: “Clean energy can transform lives in ways we can hardly imagine—from health and safety to education and economic growth. We’re committed to delivering affordable and sustainable energy solutions that can make this transformation possible.” (BioLite at the forum)

  • Water and Energy for Food: “Energy access is key to food security. By bringing renewable energy to agriculture, we’re improving food production, increasing resilience, and fostering sustainable livelihoods.” (Water and Energy for Food at the event)

    • These organizations, along with others present at the forum, represent valuable potential partners for Trade Without Borders (TWB) as it expands its impact in the humanitarian sector.

    TWB’s Role and Vision

    Joseph Fernandez, founder and board member of Trade Without Borders (TWB), participated in the event to explore potential collaborations and opportunities to enhance TWB’s programs, which include Clean Cooking, Energy Access, Safe Water, Digital Infrastructure, and Humanitarian Aid. Fernandez emphasized the significance of the forum for TWB’s mission, stating, “My visits here in Kenya and Uganda, including at the conference yesterday, will help educate us on the best way forward for TWB. For example, I see significant gaps in energy and other services for the humanitarian sector that we would be well positioned to fill.”

    TWB’s approach integrates sustainable energy solutions into its humanitarian work, ensuring that energy access is prioritized alongside other critical needs such as clean water, digital connectivity, and emergency relief. These efforts aim to alleviate the hardships faced by crisis-affected populations, such as refugees and displaced persons, where reliable energy can be a life-changing resource.

    Key Proposals from the Forum: A Global Call to Action

  • Decentralized Energy Systems: Promote scalable off-grid solar systems, integrated with battery storage, as a cost-effective solution for remote communities.

  • Innovative Financing Models: Develop blended financing options, including grants, loans, and equity, to support businesses and organizations working in off-grid energy access.

  • Cross-sector Partnerships: Foster public-private partnerships that bring together government bodies, non-profits, and the private sector to build enabling environments for the expansion of off-grid energy.

  • Localized Solutions: Tailor off-grid solutions to meet the specific needs of local communities and involve them in the design and implementation processes to ensure long-term success.

  • Capacity Building: Invest in training for local entrepreneurs, technicians, and community leaders to build skills in maintaining and scaling solar systems, while fostering local ownership of energy projects.

    • These proposals highlight the urgent need for greater collaboration between stakeholders across sectors. TWB’s holistic approach to integrating energy access with other essential services positions it well to contribute meaningfully to this global movement.

    Building Partnerships for Impact

    For TWB, the forum not only provided valuable insights but also opened doors for potential partnerships with sponsors like The Rockefeller Foundation, Sun King, BioLite, Water and Energy for Food, and others. These organizations are aligned with TWB’s mission of delivering sustainable solutions for the world’s most vulnerable populations.

    TWB’s clean energy programs are designed to fill significant gaps in humanitarian aid, where traditional energy solutions often fall short. By partnering with forward-thinking organizations, TWB aims to bring life-changing clean cooking solutions, safe water access, digital infrastructure, and reliable energy to those who need them most.

    Looking Ahead

    The Global Off-Grid Solar Forum made one thing clear: overcoming the global energy gap is a collaborative effort. With the right partnerships, innovative solutions, and adequate funding, the off-grid solar industry can transform the lives of millions who currently live without reliable energy.

    As TWB continues to build partnerships and scale its programs, the lessons from the forum will play a crucial role in shaping its strategy for 2024 and beyond. By positioning itself as a key player in addressing energy needs in crisis-affected regions, TWB is poised to make a lasting impact, offering underserved populations a brighter, more sustainable future.

    Yvan Castro, MSA, MSMkt. Fundraising Consultant | International Development and Humanitarian Leader | Chief of Party | National Director | Strategic Planning, Blue Ocean Shift, and BPM Practitioner

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