Energy challenges in the Global South ^{CEFR B2}

Many Global South countries are at a turning point in their energy systems. More than 70 percent of the world’s population faces an "energy trilemma": securing reliable electricity, keeping it affordable, and cutting emissions. China’s renewable industry now supplies solar panels, wind turbines, batteries and transmission equipment at scale; this manufacturing pushed global prices down and made renewables financially feasible in parts of South Asia.

The Global South Energy Trilemma Index (能源不可能三角), compiled by Renmin University of China, shows that since 2000 most countries improved energy access and security but continue to lag on environmental sustainability. For many low- and middle-income states the main barrier is cost: without cheaper clean technology, fossil-fuel dependence will persist. Currency instability, circular debt and volatile foreign investment deepen this problem.

Pakistan highlights these pressures. It ranks 51st out of 196 on the index and faces an investment deficit that experts put at USD 1.01 trillion by 2030. The country relies on imported technology and on foreign fuel, often under dollar‑denominated contracts. Earlier coal plants built under the Belt and Road Initiative (launched in 2013) still impose fixed capacity payments; Pakistan owes billions annually to independent power producers, many Chinese, which limits fiscal room for clean projects. Climate risks, for example the 2022 floods that destroyed wide parts of power infrastructure, increase vulnerability.

China can mobilize large infrastructure quickly, accept longer payback periods and provide finance without strict austerity conditions. But climate justice requires more than speed. Transformative engagement should include long-term, region-wide planning, meaningful technology transfer, support for local manufacturing and steps to address debt-heavy legacy contracts, while centring community resilience and basic living needs.

• Lower equipment costs have expanded renewables.
• Legacy coal contracts and foreign fuel dependence create fiscal and climate risk.
• Technology transfer, local industry support and debt measures are suggested next steps.