Renewable energy solutions for refugees and displaced people

IRENA and UNHCR have conducted a joint research, based on which the organizations propose solutions for strengthening humanitarian operations. The study is based on analysis of 4 Iraqi and Ethiopian refugee camps. The ideas proposed are based on cheap, reliable and eco-friendly renewable energy. 

The report includes the following findings: 

Electric light is inaccessible for the majority of refugees in Ethiopia. 

Brown-outs and black-outs take place frequently even in Iraqi grid-linked locations. Thus, refugees depend on costly diesel gensets with high emission level.

Solar-powered mini-grids could maximize humanitarian aid efficacy, eliminate the need of expensive diesel fuel, as well as make electrical power immediately accessible for new refugees.

Large solar farms could provide power in and near the refugee settlements. 

Stand-alone solar power plants with energy storage can decrease the voltage fluctuation influence on power grid. 

Renewable energy accessible in camps for refugees and displaced persons will improve their health, productivity, security, as well as economic and social development. 

Both humanitarian organizations and refugee hosting countries would benefit from the above improvements. 

Renewables are inevitable to enhance humanitarian operations. The above ideas can be applied to any location where displaced persons or refugees lack access to reliable electricity.

Download report:

IRENA_Refugee_settlements_2019