Empowerment through appliances: insights from the humanitarian energy sector

This report outlines key opportunities and barriers faced in serving displaced communities.

Abstract

What begins as a temporary solution often transforms into a long-term living situation for displaced communities, lasting for decades. Despite an increased focus on providing basic energy services, 94% of those in refugee camps still lack access to electricity.

In areas lacking reliable grid infrastructure, off- and weak-grid technologies emerge as dependable energy solutions. Collaborative efforts between appliance companies, humanitarian organisations, governments, financial institutions, and community groups are vital to encouraging their involvement. Initiatives like UNHCR’s Human Settlements Group of Friends exemplify this approach, improving living conditions for displaced people and creating resilient humanitarian settlements.

This study aims to amplify their voices, providing a comprehensive understanding of experiences, business models, funding sources, and challenges.

This work is part of the Transforming Energy Access programme.

Citation

Efficiency for Access ‘Empowerment through appliances: insights from the humanitarian energy sector’ February 2024

Empowerment through appliances: insights from the humanitarian energy sector

Updates to this page

Published 7 April 2025