Word from the President
Worldwide more than 1,6 billion people do not have access to electricity. 80 % of those live in rural areas. We in the industrialised world take electricity for granted. We do not realize that electricity is a basic precondition for almost all aspects of modern life.
The provision of a stable and reliable access to electricity in rural areas does not only mean light but it is a major social, economic and environmental change that contributes to the alleviation of poverty, illiteracy, hunger & thirst, disease, etc. In other words, it becomes the foundation for development and progress. Electricity is essential for self sustained economic development. It enables poor communities to take their destiny in their own hands. As a consequence, access to electricity has to be high on the political agenda, while the private sector should commit in this effort
The fight against climate change is one of the greatest challenges for the international community. Electrification means higher CO2 emission. How can access to electricity and the fight against climate change be reconciled? Renewable energies are the solution. Nowadays modern hybrid system (renewables combined with conventional energies) are not only more climate friendly than traditional diesel-run systems but also more efficient. Higher investment costs are coupled with far lower running costs. Break even can be achieved within 3-5 years.
Unfortunately, renewables do not sell themselves. They are far behind their potential. Many decision makers in developing countries consider renewables expensive experiments of rich countries. Moreover, the right technology is not enough. We need the right framework conditions to make them work in the long run: Stable political environment, sustainable financing schemes, provisions to safeguard maintenance, recycling and private entrepreneurship. This means: Prejudices have to be overcome, attitudes to be changed, policies to be adjusted. The ultimate aim is the development of self sustained markets for renewable energies worldwide. Green light for renewable energies in developing countries!
That is why the Alliance for Rural Electrification is indispensable. The Alliance is a vital global network of innovative and dedicated professionals. We promote and provide technological and financial solutions for rural electrification which really work. They work for the poor, they work for the environment and they work economically.
We in the Alliance share the vision that renewable energy must become a substantial pillar of the energy mix of all countries.
I invite all those who share this vision to join us.
Ernesto Macias
President of the Alliance for Rural Electrification