In Peru, more than 700,000 households remain unconnected to any legal electrical grid, a situation that has severe consequences for education, socio-economic development, and overall quality of life. This energy poverty not only deprives individuals of essential services but also places them at greater risk of fires, endangering lives and property.

The issue of energy insecurity has far-reaching consequences, as illustrated by a series of devastating fires that have ravaged settlements like Los Manglares in Piura. These impoverished communities lack basic amenities such as piped water and reliable heating, often resorting to clandestine electrical connections or the precarious use of candles and lanterns.

For many settlements, such as Los Rufinos in Santa Ana (Peru), which has endured 90 years without electricity, the absence of reliable power sources has hindered access to education, healthcare, and essential services. The burden of energy poverty falls disproportionately on vulnerable populations, exacerbating gender disparities and social inequality.

The reliance on kerosene and wood as energy sources, a common practice in these underserved areas, poses significant environmental and health risks. Studies have shown that kerosene users are exposed to harmful carbon black, linked to respiratory infections and other health issues. The use of wood for energy not only contributes to pollution but also directly impacts the fragile ecosystems, like the dry forests of northern Peru.

While Peru has taken some steps towards embracing renewable energy sources, the progress remains insufficient. Initiatives like the Mass Photovoltaic Program have electrified rural households, schools, and healthcare centers, but the shift towards renewables is still in its early stages. Peru ranks 42nd in the world on the Energy Transition Index, highlighting the need for more substantial efforts in this direction.

One promising avenue for closing the electrification gap is distributed energy generation, which can leverage renewable sources like solar and wind power. This approach has the potential to reach remote areas and reduce electricity costs. However, it has yet to be fully regulated and implemented in Peru, unlike countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, where it has shown promise.

Challenges in implementing a clean energy transition include flexible regulations that protect concessionaires, poor infrastructure, and a lack of political will. Additionally, the distribution of natural gas for urban areas is a topic of debate, as it remains a fossil fuel. Nevertheless, it could serve as an interim solution before transitioning to a fully clean energy matrix.

Addressing energy poverty requires a multifaceted approach, involving robust policy frameworks, investments in alternative energy sources, strengthened community foundations, and municipal coordination. Timely and accurate information, along with accessible technological options, must be provided to residents to ensure a comprehensive solution.

The electrification gap in Peru not only denies citizens access to a fundamental human right but also perpetuates a cycle of poverty and inequality. Closing this gap through sustainable energy solutions is not only an environmental imperative but also a moral one. As Peru seeks to advance its energy transition, it must prioritize inclusive policies and concerted efforts to ensure that no one is left in the dark.