yet today, over 1.5 billion people, nearly a quarter of the world's population, lack electricity. The situation in Sub-Saharan Africa, a top priority for international development, is even more desperate. There, out of a total population of 800 million, more than 500 million still lack energy access. Progress towards the Millennium Development Goals, a collective ambition of the international community, is already problematic, given the dearth of resources to invest in physical and social infrastructure, including energy infrastructure. The economic crisis only heightens the challenge. Ladies and gentlemen, in alleviating energy poverty, we must recognize that fossil fuel sources will continue to meet at least 80 percent of total energy supply for at least several decades to come. It is therefore essential to focus our attention on increasing energy access and improving energy efficiency and conservation. Apart from the obvious financial implications, this effort will require cooperation on policy and a commitment to technology investment. This shared commitment is the key to overcoming energy poverty, and in turn, to achieving and sustaining the economic growth that will enable poor nations to meet their development challenges, while addressing environmental issues within an internationally agreed framework. --More
