The Impacts of Environmental Policy on Sustainable Energy Access and Poverty Reduction
Introduction
The study aimed to investigate the impacts of environmental policy on sustainable energy access and poverty reduction. The research was carried out by analyzing the policies and programs implemented by various countries to enhance energy access while reducing poverty. The study considered the role of renewable energy in improving energy access in rural areas and how environmental policies can impact sustainable energy access and poverty reduction efforts.
Methods
The study used a qualitative research approach. The data was collected from academic journals, reports, and publications related to energy policy, sustainability, and poverty reduction. The researchers analyzed policies from countries such as Nigeria, India, and South Africa to identify the impacts of environmental policies on energy access and poverty reduction.
Results
The study found that environmental policies could be effective in reducing poverty and increasing sustainable energy access. There were significant positive impacts of policies promoting renewable energy on increasing energy access in rural areas. The policies also led to job creation in the renewable energy sector, which contributed to poverty reduction.
However, the study also found that some policies could have negative effects. The researchers identified cases of policies that resulted in higher electricity tariffs, leading to a reduction in energy accessibility for poor households. The study revealed the critical role of electricity pricing policies in ensuring equitable access to energy.
Discussion
The study highlighted the essential role of environmental policies in promoting sustainable energy access and poverty reduction. The researchers advocated for policies that prioritize renewable energy and promote equitable access. They also recommended policies that provide energy subsidies to low-income households that cannot afford high electricity bills. The findings emphasized the need for a holistic approach to energy policy that considers poverty reduction and environmental sustainability concerns.
Conclusion
The study demonstrated that environmental policies could have significant impacts on sustainable energy access and poverty reduction. The study recommended policies that promote renewable energy and ensure equitable access to energy. The research also highlighted the importance of considering the impact of energy policies on low-income households to avoid policies that may exacerbate poverty.
References
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Afionis, S., Buchs, M., & Newell, P. (2019). The political economy of energy access: Surveying the evidence on service delivery models, institutional arrangements, and distributive outcomes. Energy Research & Social Science, 55, 1-15.
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Majumdar, S., & Mazumdar, S. (2020). Measuring the Impact of Renewable Energy Policies on Energy Access, Health, and Socioeconomic Development in India. Energy Policy, 142, 111518.
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Orock, N. E., Kundu, D., & Feran, H. E. (2020). Sustainable electrification in Nigeria: An assessment of off-grid renewable energy solutions for rural healthcare facilities. Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments, 39, 100657.
