OFID on Energy Poverty

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

According to a recent OPEC study (World Oil Outlook 2009), renewable energy participation in the world energy mix is expected to increase, albeit slowly, in the period up to 2030. During the same period, fossil fuels will continue to predominate, with a share of more than 80 percent. It is expected, however, that renewables will play a more critical role in the succeeding years, most likely from the middle of the century onwards. Already today, renewables are proving important for both developed and developing countries. Indeed, many developing countries endowed with hydroelectric potential have developed this type of energy to such an extent that it makes a significant contribution to their energy mix. Other renewables, such as wind, solar and modern biofuels have been slowly increasing their share also. On a cautionary note, however, care should be taken to ensure that the development and deployment of certain renewables – such as first-generation biofuels for transportation – does not disrupt other key sectors or conflict with other priorities like food security, as highlighted in the OFID study Biofuels and Food Security.