It is recognised that technological innovation, patents and standards are important aspects of developing and increasing uptake, awareness and confidence in the renewable energy market. R&D and innovation are expected to not only lower the cost of electricity from renewable mini-grids but enable a higher share of renewable energy for power generation. IRENA's work in innovation has elaborated on the most promising technology developments that could enable faster commercialisation and large-scale deployment of renewable mini-grids in the coming decades.

Within the context of supporting off-grid systems to address energy access in rural and remote areas, IRENA has developed various tools, such as the Project Navigator and INSPIRE, among others.

Accelerating Off-grid Renewable Energy: Key Findings and Recommendations from IOREC 2016

The business case for off-grid renewables as a means to expand rural electricity access keeps growing stronger, thanks to steady cost reductions and technological innovation. Yet further accelerating the growth of either mini-grid or stand-alone solutions will depend also on stable policies and regulations, along with dedicated funds and de-risking instruments for renewables.

• January 2017
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• Off-grid for Energy Access, Policy
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• English

Recent Publications

Tracking SDG 7: The Energy Progress Report (2020)

This joint tracking report provides the most comprehensive look available at the world&rsq...

Off-grid renewable energy statistics 2019

This report outlines key off-grid power and biogas data over the decade 2008-2017 in trili...

Renewable solutions for refugee settlements

The report, prepared in collaboration with UN Refugee Agency, proposes renewable ener...

Advancing Renewables in Developing Countries

The IRENA/ADFD Project Facility represents a partnership between the two key organisations...

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