The report examined the energy needs at refugee camps and identifies renewables-based solutions for four sites in Iraq and Ethiopia. Most refugees and displaced persons rely on energy resources that are unsustainable and pose high risks to their health and well-being.

The lack of access to energy for cooking poses another big challenge for refugees in Ethiopia. The refugees are very dependent on collecting firewood, which has led to degradation of forests and conflicts with the host communities. Refugees that collect firewood have reported risks of abuse and harassment when collecting firewood. 

Here comes a big role of renewable energy. Since the four locations have been identified in areas where solar energy is enormous in amount, solar mini-grids could be installed to cater to the immediate needs of the refugees. Because solar power installation is almost always a one-time investment, humanitarian organizations and national governments must make efforts to establish such grids that will help both the refugees and the hosts, alongwith also sustaining the environment.

Pertaining to the cooking fuel and its consequent pollution, measures must be taken to replace firewood for cooking with solar power for cooking. This will not only limit conflicts but will also help us protect the environment.

Renewable energy has become increasingly important in these times when refugee crisis is at its peak. So, if efforts are made now to shift to renewable energy, our posterity can enjoy the perks of a good environment later.

You can read more about the steps being taken now here : https://www.irena.org/publications/2019/Dec/Renewable-solutions-for-refugee-settlements