Off-grid energy solutions represent one of the most effective ways of powering the world’s most remote and marginalised communities. Yet, we are not on track to achieve universal energy access by 2030, with more than 660 million predicted to remain in the dark. 60 Decibels’ latest report, ‘Why Off-Grid Energy Matters 2024’, is the world’s most comprehensive social impact assessment of the off-grid sector to date. Based on phone interviews with 79,000+ off-grid energy customers, it identifies areas for improvement and opportunities for outsized impact performance for energy organisations and investors alike – to aid in bridging the energy divide and support the promise of no one left behind.
We’re proud to be included in the world’s most comprehensive social impact assessment of off-grid energy! Conducted by @60 Decibels, the 2024 edition of Why Off-Grid Energy Matters is based on interviews with 79,000 off-grid energy customers in more than 30 countries.
For Smiling Through Light, 53% of customers saw their quality of life improve because of access to the solar home systems that the company provides. We are also reaching unserved populations with 60% of customers accessing this technology for the first time. We’re proud to share that we are in the 4.5% benchmark for Customer Service (of those facing challenges) indicator. This makes Smiling Through Light a 60 Decibels 2024 Top Performer for our Customer Service in Sierra Leone.
The report highlights the transformative power of off-grid energy solutions, identifying opportunities for outsized impact performance and providing practical next steps towards bridging the energy divide – which is critically needed for the 660 million people expected to remain without electricity by 2030.
Findings collated from more than 450 impact measurement projects reveal that over half of all customers report a significant improvement in their lives, with 9 in 10 experiencing enhanced wellbeing. Three-quarters of those surveyed were accessing these energy solutions for the first time, highlighting our projects' reach to previously unserved populations.
Dive into the full report to explore the detailed findings around areas for improvement, opportunities for outsized impact performance, and more: 60decibels.com/energy-report
