BRICS’ Race to Clean Energy Risks Creating a New Energy Divide

Source: Devdiscourse | Original Published At: 2026-07-02 17:36:32 UTC

Key Points

• A study published in Energies analyzes the impact of energy transition on energy poverty across the expanded BRICS grouping from 2000 to 2023.
• Baseline models indicate a 1% increase in energy transition variables is linked to a 0.63% decrease in electricity access within BRICS economies.
• Researchers warn that clean energy expansion risks becoming less inclusive if not supported by grid upgrades, affordability measures, and social protection.
• Urbanization and economic growth were found negatively associated with electricity access in baseline results, suggesting infrastructure development is lagging behind demand.
• Policy recommendations include targeted subsidies, lifeline tariffs, and investment in smart grids to protect vulnerable consumers during decarbonization.
• The study uses electricity access as a proxy for energy poverty, noting limitations regarding multidimensional factors like affordability and clean cooking.