Development experts agree that ensuring access to sustainable
modern energy services is critical to achieving the Millennium
Development Goals. Some 2.4 billion people still use traditional
biomass fuels for cooking, often facing the risk of indoor air
pollution, while about 1.6 billion people have no access to
electricity. This report explores how international oil and
gas companies can contribute to tackling energy poverty in the
regions where they operate. There is a growing business case
for this, including the need to mitigate political and social risks, address community expectations and secure future investment opportunities with host governments. Oil and gas companies can