Damilola Ogunbiyi is CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All. In this episode, she joins Jenn to discuss the critical connection between energy access and poverty, why 666 million people still lack electricity, and how the Global South can leapfrog to clean energy from the start rather than transition later.
Understand the Link Between Energy and Opportunity
Energy poverty isn't just about lacking electricity at home. It's about lacking the power for healthcare systems, businesses, and industries that create real economic opportunity. Without energy for productive use, communities remain trapped in poverty. As Damilola explains, people don't leave where they're from if they have opportunity, and you can't have opportunity without energy.
Think Green Growth, Not Energy Transition
For countries without existing energy infrastructure, the conversation shouldn't be about transition. The technology already exists and communities should be able to access clean energy from the start. The real barrier isn't technology, it’s finance and understanding that all types of funding need to be on the table to make universal clean energy access a reality by 2030.
Assess Projects on Their Own Merits
Private equity investors often rely on country risk ratings that don't reflect the true potential of bankable energy projects in the Global South. Some of the highest returns are available in markets that require a closer look. Opportunities like commercial solar for industries, blended finance structures, and local currency deals can deliver strong returns for investors.