Left in the Dark, Millions Without Electricity Around the World
Electricity has become one of the most basic necessities of modern life. From lighting to education, healthcare to industry, access to electricity directly impacts quality of life. However, despite the world moving toward the middle of the 21st century, millions of people across the globe still live in darkness. While awareness is growing that electricity should be a basic right rather than a luxury, this right is still far from being universally realized.
Global Status of Electricity Access
According to the World Bank and the International Energy Agency (IEA), as of 2024, approximately 750 million people worldwide lack access to electricity. This number was around 1.2 billion in the early 2010s. Although this decline shows progress, the regional distribution of electricity access remains highly unequal.
Regions with the lowest electricity access include Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and parts of Oceania. In countries such as Niger, Chad, South Sudan, and Burkina Faso, more than 50% of the population lives without electricity. In many of these areas, particularly in rural regions, people are forced to live completely in the dark.
Impact on Education and Healthcare
Lack of electricity means more than just unlit nights. It affects multiple aspects of life children are unable to study after dark, hospitals struggle with sterilization and emergency services, clean water supply is hindered, and communication remains limited.
For example, in countries like Uganda and Ethiopia, many rural health clinics cannot perform nighttime surgeries, store vaccines properly, or ensure safe deliveries due to the absence of electricity. Likewise, many students can only study during daylight, severely limiting their academic progress.
The Link Between Poverty and Electricity
Electricity is a cornerstone of development. Without energy, there is no economic growth, industrial investment, agricultural productivity, or digital progress. Communities lacking electricity are typically those living below the poverty line, and this energy poverty perpetuates a cycle of generational poverty.
Those without electricity often rely on kerosene lamps, wood stoves, and oil lanterns options that are not only harmful to health but also environmentally damaging. Electricity is not just about convenience; it’s vital for health, safety, and environmental sustainability.
Global Efforts and Possible Solutions
One of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 7) is to ensure access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy for all by 2030. However, achieving this goal will require doubling current investment levels, according to global energy experts.
Solar energy solutions have emerged as cost-effective and sustainable alternatives. Solar panels make it feasible to bring electricity to rural areas economically. NGOs and private initiatives are actively implementing solar projects, while microgrids and portable energy technologies are also playing a vital role in this transformation.
Electricity Is a Human Right, Not a Luxury
While some parts of the world glow under city lights, others still battle through darkness. Electricity is no longer a matter of comfort it is essential for a life of dignity. The global community must work harder to eliminate this injustice and bring light to the millions still left in the dark.
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