How Renewables Can Solve The Energy Sector's Water Problem
Channel: International Energy Agency
Date: 2023-03-22

Find out more: https://iea.li/worldwaterday

The world has a water problem – and the energy sector needs to contend with it. About a quarter of the global population does not have access to safe drinking water and almost half lack proper sanitation services. Nearly two-thirds of the world’s population experiences severe water scarcity for at least one month each year, and climate change will make water flows more erratic.

At the same time, the global energy system used around 370 billion cubic metres (bcm) of freshwater in 2021, or roughly 10% of total global freshwater withdrawals. Water is essential for almost every aspect of energy supply, from electricity generation to fossil fuel production to biofuels cultivation.

World Water Day is an annual event aimed at bringing attention to sustainable water management and this year’s theme is “accelerating change”. This commentary explores how an acceleration in clean energy development can help ease the world’s water crisis. The choices we make for future energy pathways will have a major impact on our ability to achieve Sustainable Development Goals, including access to clean water and sanitation for all.

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