Global progress on electricity access has stalled with 730 million people still without power in 2024, according to new data from the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Sub-Saharan Africa remains the hardest-hit region, accounting for about 80% of the global population without electricity (roughly 600 million people). The number of people without access in the region increased for the first time in over a decade, reversing earlier gains as population growth outpaced new connections.
Grid extension and mini-grids accounted for almost 90% of new electricity connections last year but most people still lacking access live in countries that have only recently adopted electrification strategies.
The IEA also reports that newly connected households in Sub-Saharan Africa often use less than 50 kWh of electricity per person per year, which is far below the global average.
Financing shortfalls are another major barrier. Public debt levels are rising, international support is declining and borrowing costs in many African countries are three to four times higher than in advanced economies, constraining investment in electrification, the IEA says.
