Cross-border perspectives: Energy poverty and climate change in the Middle East

Despite the region’s significant oil and gas reserves, energy poverty remains a pressing issue in the Middle East. Even though a significant amount of fossil fuels are sourced in the Middle East, many countries struggle to provide sufficient affordable and reliable energy access to their population. Rapid population growth, inefficient infrastructure, economic disparities, and geopolitical tensions worsen energy poverty challenges. Energy poverty affects vulnerable communities, especially rural areas and informal settlements, with insufficient access to electricity, sanitary cooking facilities, and heating and cooling services. Addressing energy poverty in the Middle East requires a complex approach, including investment in renewable energy infrastructure, policy reforms to promote energy efficiency, targeted social assistance programs, and international cooperation to enhance energy security and equitable access for all.