A comprehensive approach to the governance of universal access to sustainable energy

Abstract

Achieving universal access to energy by 2030 (Sustainable Development Goal 7.1) hinges on significantly scaling up and accelerating electrification efforts in developing countries. Governing the ecosystem of government agencies, energy utilities, practitioners, development and finance institutions, banks, NGOs, academia, and, most importantly, beneficiary communities to accelerate the pace of electrification requires the interweaving of technological innovation, disruptive business models, improved institutional frameworks, and inclusive multi-stakeholder decision-making, to ensure that no one is left behind. The foundation of this article is based on extensive insider research, including 14 national electrification plans, numerous visits, field studies, and semi-structured interviews with these actors conducted over ten years in 25 countries. This article presents a novel comprehensive conceptual approach that integrates both macro (national and global) and micro (local and individual) level mechanisms and the role of cultural factors and shared values within the ecosystem in driving and accelerating action within a harmonized regulatory, policy, and planning framework. It outlines the essential mechanisms for effectively engaging and empowering governments, utilities, donors, and local actors to accelerate the path to universal electrification through the most cost-effective articulation of diverse technologies and business models.