An Examination of the Impact of Energy Transition on Marginalized Communities in the Global South

Abstract

The transition to more sustainable and cleaner energy sources is a global imperative in the face of climate change and environmental degradation. However, as this transition takes place, it is important to assess its impact on marginalized communities, particularly in Africa and the Global South. This work explores the issues of equity, affordability, and access that arise in the context of energy transition and its implications for these communities. Energy transition initiatives often prioritize the deployment of renewable energy technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These must be implemented with careful consideration of the needs and interests of marginalized communities. Equity is an important aspect to address in the energy transition process. Communities that are marginalized in Africa and the Global South often face socioeconomic problems that hinder their ability to access clean energy technologies. Affordability is another important issue to consider. While renewable energy technologies have become increasingly cost-competitive, initial investment costs can still be prohibitive for marginalized communities. Marginalized communities often face challenges related to the physical availability of energy infrastructure. Energy transition should prioritize the expansion of decentralized and off-grid solutions to ensure universal energy access. This work concludes by examining the impact of energy transition on marginalized communities in Africa and the Global South where it sees it as vital for achieving a just and sustainable energy future.