Powering the Last Billion: The Technologies That Are Electrifying the Developing World

December 11, 2017 | State of the Market Report

Approximately 1 billion people live without access to electricity today, and bringing power to the last billion is the single largest initiative for many governments. Particularly in regions of the developing world, the solution to this problem is still up for debate. In this report, we provide an overview of rural electrification, including both the technology approaches and the regions seeking electrification. We segment technology approaches into three types, examining the unique features of each through case studies, and we find that the right technology solution depends heavily on the characteristics of the region being electrified.

Coverage Areas

  • Energy Storage
  • Future Grid
  • Next Generation Power
  • Owning the Energy Transition

Table of Contents

  • Executive Summary
  • Landscape
    Technologies like solar home systems and diesel generators leave gaps for innovation in bringing electricity to a billion people worldwide.
  • Analysis
    Power supply technologies that are bringing electricity to the developing world can be grouped in three types, with each allowing for increasing similarity to developed world power grids.
  • Outlook

Lead Analyst

Max Halik
Senior Research Associate

Contributors

Katrina Westerhof
Tyler Ogden
Categories Distributed generation solar projects, Energy trading, Flow batteries, Lead-acid batteries (FLA, EFB, AGM), Lithium-ion batteries, Microgrid systems and technologies, Microgrid systems and technologies, Power electronics, Operation and maintenance software, Power electronics, Silicon and thin-film PV cells and modules
Related companies SolarCity, Enel, Asian Development Bank, European Investment Bank, Simpa Networks, Engie, PEG Ghana, Powerhive, Tesla, Sungrow, SOLshare, Fenix International, M-Kopa, International Renewable Energy Agency, Rafiki Power, IIT Madras

About Lux Research

Lux Research is a leading provider of tech-enabled research and advisory solutions, helping clients drive growth through technology innovation. A pioneer in the research industry, Lux uniquely combines technical expertise and business insights with a proprietary intelligence platform, using advanced analytics and data science to surface true leading indicators. With quality data derived from primary research, fact-based analysis, and opinions that challenge traditional thinking, Lux clients are empowered to make more informed decisions today to ensure future success.

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