7 Aug 2020 - With a view to better understand the rapidly evolving economic situation in partner countries in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, EnDev spearheaded a broad alliance of sector stakeholders to conduct the most inclusive and global survey of the off-grid energy industry to date – the Energy Access Industry Barometer.

The results of the survey present a picture from 613 companies across 44 countries, that provide energy access through mini-grids, clean cooking solutions, household solar products and appliances. Actual live market data will give investors, governments, and donors the insights they need to respond to the crisis and develop recovery strategies. [Summary] [Slide deck]

From the results, three main findings can be derived:

  1. The energy access sector is in crisis: Progress towards SDG7 and related SDGs at severe risk
  2. Many businesses fear for their survival, large number of jobs at risk – Livelihoods are endangered, economic and social crisis coincide
  3. Access to finance is key – sector needs special vehicles: Particularly short-term grant relief – also new long-term equity/debt & concessional loans