_Authored by Navon as a Global Call to Action_ ## Introduction: A Global Opportunity for Inclusive Innovation The world is on the cusp of a new era where artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced clean energy infrastructure can become **global public goods** – delivering widespread benefits in health, education, and economic prosperity. History shows that technological leaps drive growth and social progress, and today AI offers immense potential value to all nations. By 2030, AI could contribute an additional **$15 trillion** to the world economy [weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2017/06/the-global-economy-will-be-14-bigger-in-2030-because-of-ai/#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20new%20report%2C,of%20China%20and%20India%20combined), transforming industries from agriculture to healthcare. However, without intentional inclusion, these gains may bypass many developing regions; one study warns that, under current trends, developing countries might see less than a 6% boost to GDP from AI, far below the benefits accruing elsewhere[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2017/06/the-global-economy-will-be-14-bigger-in-2030-because-of-ai/#:~:text=Europe%20and%20developed%20countries%20in,less%20than%206). This disparity underscores the urgent need to bridge digital divides and energy access gaps so that **every country** can harness the next wave of innovation. At the same time, achieving this promise depends on powering the tools of tomorrow. Electricity is the backbone of the digital economy – from data centers training AI models to households and small businesses adopting smart solutions. Global electricity demand is **soaring** at nearly 4% annually [iea.org](https://www.iea.org/energy-system/electricity#:~:text=,annually%20through%202027), outpacing overall energy demand. Emerging economies are at the center of this growth: they will account for **85% of the increase in electricity demand by 2040** [weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/03/key-steps-for-meet-the-growing-global-demand-for-electricity/#:~:text=shift%20to%20electric%20power)[iea.org](https://www.iea.org/energy-system/electricity#:~:text=Most%20of%20the%20additional%20demand,the%20overall%20economy%20since%202020) as populations grow, living standards rise, and more communities connect to the grid. This surging demand presents both an opportunity and a challenge. On one hand, it’s a chance for emerging markets and the Global South to **leapfrog** outdated infrastructure and build clean, smart, distributed energy systems that support economic development. On the other hand, without proactive investment, it risks reinforcing inequity – if new power needs are met with the same old fossil-based, centralized models, or worse, if large parts of the world remain left in the dark. **This document is a global call to action**. It lays out a vision for how all countries – especially outside the U.S., including those in the Global South – can **collaboratively unlock innovation** in AI and energy as a shared endeavor. We adopt a grassroots, inclusive tone, centering equity, access, and opportunity for all. The strategic recommendations herein preserve the technical substance of the original policy proposals, but reframe them for an international audience. We emphasize global frameworks (such as the **UN Sustainable Development Goals**, the **International Energy Agency (IEA)**, the **International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)**) and regional cooperation in place of U.S.-specific policies. Our aim is to align this agenda with the **unique needs and opportunities of emerging markets** – from affordable electricity access and digital infrastructure gaps to workforce development and climate resilience. Now is the time to act. By treating advanced technologies and modern energy infrastructure as **global public goods**, we can ensure the next era of innovation leaves no one behind. With international collaboration, smart investment, and people-centered policies, we can power a more inclusive and sustainable future. ## Sizing the Global Upside: AI and Clean Energy for All Technological development has always been a catalyst for prosperity. AI, in particular, is poised to be a central driver of the next wave of global growth – but only if its benefits reach across borders and social strata. Imagine AI-driven health diagnostics available in rural clinics, smart farming tools boosting yields for smallholder farmers, or virtual learning platforms bringing world-class education to remote villages. These are not sci-fi scenarios; they are within reach if we make the right investments in **supportive infrastructure and policy**. **AI as a Growth Engine:** Experts estimate AI could raise global GDP by 14% in the coming decade [weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2017/06/the-global-economy-will-be-14-bigger-in-2030-because-of-ai/#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20new%20report%2C,of%20China%20and%20India%20combined). Early adopters in high-income countries and China are already seeing productivity gains and new industries emerge. For example, AI is accelerating scientific breakthroughs and service delivery – from drug discovery to traffic optimization – offering solutions to long-standing development challenges. For the Global South, AI’s promise is especially significant as a leapfrogging tool: it can enable countries to bypass some industrialization stages and directly build knowledge economies. **However, realizing this upside requires electricity and connectivity**. Training advanced AI models and using digital services demand reliable power and internet access. If half a community has no lights or lacks broadband, they effectively cannot participate in (or benefit from) the digital revolution. Thus, closing the energy access gap and the digital infrastructure gap is foundational to sharing AI’s rewards. **Energy as the Enabler:** There is a **direct causal relationship between energy access and economic development**, observed throughout history. Regions that expanded electricity access saw improved health outcomes, productivity, and education levels. Today, with AI and electrification of transport, industry, and homes, the link is even more pronounced. The IEA notes that electricity use is growing twice as fast as overall energy demand as more sectors shift to power [iea.org](https://www.iea.org/energy-system/electricity#:~:text=The%20contours%20of%20a%20new%2C,and%20data%20centres%20and%20AI). Data centers – the “brain” infrastructure of AI – are proliferating worldwide, and could account for up to **10% of total electricity demand growth by 2030** [oxfordenergy.org](https://www.oxfordenergy.org/wpcms/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Global-electricity-demand.pdf#:~:text=,albeit%20still%20lower%20than). In emerging economies, demand is also coming from new consumers connecting to the grid for the first time, increased cooling needs in hotter climates, and the rise of electric mobility. Meeting this demand with clean, affordable power is critical. If we fail, countries may fall back on coal or diesel generation, undermining climate goals and burdening communities with pollution – or they may simply face energy shortages that stifle growth. **The Inclusion Imperative:** The benefits of AI and advanced energy must be framed as **global public goods** – meaning their advantages extend beyond one company or country, and investing in them yields shared global benefits. For instance, an AI model that helps predict crop failures can improve food security across continents, and a breakthrough in battery storage can lower renewable energy costs for all. Yet public and private investment is not evenly spread. Currently, only **one-fifth of clean energy investment occurs in emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs)** [weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/impact/clean-energy-in-emerging-markets//#:~:text=Our%20climate%20future%20largely%20depends,is%20taking%20place%20in%20EMDEs), even though these countries bear the majority of future demand and also the brunt of energy poverty. This imbalance is dangerous: it risks a two-tier world where advanced nations surge ahead with AI and clean tech, while others are left with outdated systems and marginal gains. To truly “power” the next era of innovation **for everyone**, we must double down on closing these gaps. That means channeling more resources to emerging economies’ energy and tech infrastructure, and doing so in ways that **prioritize equity and access**. As we outline next, a multifaceted strategy is needed – one that accelerates innovation in clean energy, modernizes grids and connectivity, and invests in people’s skills – all underpinned by global cooperation. ## 1. Accelerate Innovation and Investment in Clean Energy Technologies Globally The first pillar of this call to action is **to accelerate innovation and investment in affordable, reliable, and secure energy technologies** around the world. Achieving universal energy access (SDG7) and fueling the AI revolution will require a diverse mix of solutions – from renewables like solar and wind, to advanced geothermal and next-generation nuclear, to energy storage and smart grid tech. No single technology or qcountry can do it alone; a _system-wide, technology-agnostic approach_ is needed [weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/03/key-steps-for-meet-the-growing-global-demand-for-electricity/#:~:text=Electricity%20is%20becoming%20the%20backbone,%E2%80%93%20shift%20to%20electric%20power)[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/03/key-steps-for-meet-the-growing-global-demand-for-electricity/#:~:text=System). This means every nation and region should be empowered to deploy the best available solutions that fit their needs, with support from global partnerships. Key strategies include: - **Increase Global R&D and Knowledge Sharing:** We must ramp up research, development, and **knowledge transfer** for deep-tech energy solutions. Breakthroughs in areas like enhanced geothermal systems, modular nuclear reactors, or carbon capture should be treated as global knowledge commons. Initiatives like **Mission Innovation** and collaborations under the **International Energy Agency** can help nations pool research efforts and share best practices. For example, if one country develops safer and cheaper small modular nuclear reactor designs, international frameworks (through the **International Atomic Energy Agency**) can help other regulators adopt those standards, avoiding each country reinventing the wheel. Companies like Google have invested for nearly two decades in energy innovation, from high-efficiency data center design to novel wind energy purchasing. These experiences and technologies can be shared and scaled in new markets via open platforms and partnerships – a role that platforms like **Navon** champion by “unlocking local data economies” and enabling developing economies to leapfrog (as part of Navon’s core mission to **level the playing field in access to clean energy and deep technology** [navonworld.com](https://www.navonworld.com/#:~:text=We%E2%80%99re%20a%20relentless%20team%20of,that%20makes%20the%20impossible%20possible)). - **Mitigate Costs and Risks of Advanced Technologies:** Innovative energy projects often face high upfront costs and financial risks, which can be prohibitive in lower-income countries. To address this, the global community should expand financing tools that **de-risk investments** in clean energy. International development banks and climate funds (like the **Green Climate Fund** or regional development banks) can offer loan guarantees, insurance, or concessional finance for projects such as geothermal drilling or advanced nuclear plants. This is analogous to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office, but at a global scale. For instance, a multinational “Clean Energy Leapfrog Fund” could back projects in the Global South that deploy cutting-edge solutions, absorbing some of the risk that local developers cannot. This approach would mitigate cost uncertainties and encourage private investors to fund projects that have high public benefits but perceived high risks. - **Streamline Permitting and Regulatory Pathways Internationally:** Lengthy and cumbersome permitting processes are a major barrier to deploying new energy infrastructure worldwide. Each country often has its own version of environmental impact assessments and licensing rules, some modeled on processes like the U.S. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). While environmental and social safeguards are essential, **streamlining regulatory approval** for proven clean technologies can accelerate progress without sacrificing standards. Governments should identify ways to expedite permits for critical resources like wind farms, solar parks, advanced **geothermal wells**, and **carbon capture and storage (CCS)** facilities. For example, if a geothermal project is planned on previously developed land or an existing oil field, fast-track review could be granted (a concept already explored in U.S. legislation for geothermal on disturbed lands). Similarly, countries can establish clear guidelines for **CO₂ pipeline and storage permitting**, learning from pioneers (such as Canada’s and Norway’s frameworks for CO₂ storage). The **International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)** and other bodies can help by developing model policies for streamlined permitting that emerging economies can adapt, ensuring that necessary reviews are completed in months, not years, while still engaging local communities and protecting the environment. - **Foster Domestic Supply of Critical Energy Materials:** A resilient clean energy future will require reliable supplies of critical inputs – from battery materials to nuclear fuel. Today, many countries in the Global South rely entirely on imports for these, which can be a vulnerability. International cooperation is needed to **diversify and secure supply chains** for critical materials and fuels. For instance, establishing regional centers for manufacturing solar panels, or fuel fabrication for advanced reactors, can reduce dependence and build local industry. Programs could be modeled on the U.S. Nuclear Fuel Security Act but applied regionally – e.g., a consortium of countries partnering to finance a fuel fabrication facility for new reactor types, under IAEA supervision. Likewise, partnerships for processing lithium, cobalt, and rare earth minerals (needed for batteries and wind turbines) can ensure that resource-rich developing countries also gain value-added industries rather than just exporting raw commodities. This strategy not only improves energy security but also creates jobs and expertise in emerging economies. - **Promote Technology-Neutral Incentives and Carbon Pricing:** Policymakers worldwide should maintain and expand incentives that reward any source of clean energy or emission reductions. In the U.S., mechanisms like the 45Q tax credit (for carbon capture) and 48E/45Y credits (for clean electricity production) have spurred investment. Internationally, equivalents can be implemented: for example, **carbon pricing systems or tax credits** for captured CO₂ could be adopted by more countries (or supported through international carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement). Development banks and donor governments could also offer results-based financing – essentially paying a subsidy per megawatt of renewable or other clean capacity installed, or per ton of CO₂ avoided, in lower-income countries to ensure these projects are financially attractive. Making such incentives **transferable** or tradable across borders (as carbon credits) can attract global capital to local projects. The goal is to create a **technology-neutral playing field** where solar, wind, geothermal, advanced nuclear, energy storage, and other innovations can all flourish if they deliver clean and affordable energy. - **Support Distributed and Community Energy Solutions:** Innovation isn’t only about big power plants or high-tech labs – it’s also about empowering communities at the grassroots. In many parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, small-scale solar **microgrids** and battery systems are bringing first-time electricity access to villages faster than the central grid can expand. These distributed systems are themselves an area for innovation: companies are developing smarter controllers, pay-as-you-go financing via mobile phones, and AI-driven maintenance for off-grid systems. Such solutions should be treated as first-class citizens in energy planning, not as an afterthought. Governments can set policies that encourage **mini-grid development**, allow communities or entrepreneurs to operate local power systems, and integrate them with the main grid where feasible. An inspiring example comes from Nigeria, where less than 50% of the population has a reliable power supply[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/09/startup-reliable-power-nigeria//#:~:text=Image%3A%20Nigeria%27s%20capital%20city%20Abuja)[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/09/startup-reliable-power-nigeria//#:~:text=But%20in%20a%20country%20where,inefficient%20energy%20source%3A%20petrol%20generators). A start-up, ICE Commercial Power, is deploying solar-powered microgrids to connect small businesses to affordable, clean electricity, reducing reliance on expensive diesel generators[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/09/startup-reliable-power-nigeria//#:~:text=electricity%20supply.%20%2A%20Start,affordable%20access%20to%20digital%20solutions)[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/09/startup-reliable-power-nigeria//#:~:text=Nigerian%20entrepreneur%20Emmanuel%20Ekwueme%2C%20who,energy%20solutions%E2%80%9D%20for%20underserved%20businesses). Not only do such projects cut pollution and costs, they also empower local entrepreneurs and improve livelihoods. International support – through grants, technical assistance, or aggregation of projects for large investors – can rapidly scale these community energy innovations across the Global South. In summary, accelerating energy innovation globally means **removing barriers and seeding opportunity**: cutting red tape that slows projects, mitigating financial risks, spreading knowledge, and uplifting local solutions. By doing so, we enable all sources of clean electricity and all regions to contribute to a more reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy future. It is a call for **constructive public-private collaboration** on a planetary scale – much like what built the original internet or eradicated diseases – to ensure advanced energy technology benefits everyone, everywhere. Companies like Google will continue to invest in breakthrough technologies, and platforms like Navon can help bring those breakthroughs to communities worldwide by designing and operating infrastructure that is both cutting-edge and accessible. The next section turns to the equally important task of delivering this energy where it’s needed: modernizing the grids and networks that form the circulation system of our energy future. ## 2. Modernize Infrastructure: Smarter Grids and Inclusive Connectivity Even as we innovate in generation and energy technology, we must also modernize the way energy (and digital connectivity) reaches people. Today’s electricity grids in many countries are **under strain or underdeveloped** – and they often pose as much of a barrier to delivering abundant, reliable energy as generation constraints do. In the U.S., for example, misaligned incentives and aging transmission networks mean the grid is not optimized. Internationally, the challenges are multifaceted: some regions have _too little_ grid infrastructure (e.g. large swathes of sub-Saharan Africa lack high-voltage lines), while others have grids that are fragmented, antiquated, or poorly managed. Additionally, digital infrastructure (internet backbones, mobile networks, data centers) often doesn’t reach remote or marginalized communities. Modernizing infrastructure, therefore, means **building new capacity where needed, optimizing existing systems, and integrating regional and global networks** for both electricity and digital data. Key priorities include: - **Optimize Use of Existing Grids with Smart Technology:** Before building hundreds of new power lines, countries should squeeze more capacity and efficiency out of what already exists. Advances in **grid management and AI** can dramatically improve the utilization of current infrastructure. For instance, **Grid-Enhancing Technologies (GETs)** like dynamic line rating sensors, power flow control devices, and topology optimization software can increase a transmission line’s throughput by allowing it to operate closer to its true capacity safely. Studies indicate that deploying such tools widely could unlock up to _100 GW of additional transmission capacity_ on U.S. systems alone – the potential in other regions is also huge. State utilities and regulators around the world should require consideration of these tech solutions in grid planning. Some places are leading the way: states like Colorado and Virginia in the U.S. have adopted policies for GETs, and utilities in Europe are piloting AI for grid balancing. Alphabet’s own **Tapestry** project provides a great example of innovation in action: it uses AI-driven simulations to help grid planners anticipate needs up to 20 years out, and is working with a major U.S. grid operator (PJM) to optimize new resource integration. Similarly, Google has developed software to shift its data centers’ electricity use in real-time to support grid stability. These kinds of innovations can be shared globally – imagine cloud computing companies in Asia or Africa adjusting server loads to help balance a local grid, or AI tools aiding grid operators in Latin America to forecast and respond to demand surges. Governments and industry should collaborate to deploy smart grid technologies and **align utility incentives** so that operators benefit from efficiency (for example, through shared-savings models where utilities keep part of the cost savings from avoided infrastructure expansion). Optimizing what we have is often the fastest and most cost-effective way to deliver more power to consumers. - **Expand and Upgrade Transmission & Distribution Networks:** That said, optimization alone won’t meet the exploding demand – significant new construction of transmission lines, substations, and distribution networks is needed, especially in emerging economies. Planning and permitting such projects must be accelerated. It currently can take **a decade or more** to build a large cross-country transmission line in many jurisdictions, due to complex approvals, land acquisition, and sometimes local opposition. We need to cut this timeline dramatically to enable the energy transition. Streamlining transmission permitting (akin to proposals in the bipartisan U.S. Energy Permitting Reform Act) should be a priority worldwide. This might involve creating “one-stop” permitting agencies that coordinate across ministries, setting statutory deadlines for decisions, and standardizing how costs and benefits are allocated for regional lines. For example, in Africa, the African Union could work with member states on an expedited approval process for projects identified in the **African Power Pools** masterplans. In South Asia, regional cooperation could fast-track critical interconnector lines that allow power trade between countries. **Comprehensive grid planning** is also essential – looking 20+ years ahead to anticipate where new generation (like large solar farms or wind parks) will arise and where demand centers will be, then mapping needed transmission proactively. The U.S. recently required 20-year scenario planning with updates every 5 years; other nations and regions can adopt similar forward-looking planning mandates, perhaps guided by the **International Renewable Energy Agency’s planning scenarios**. This prevents the narrow planning of yesteryear and ensures we build for the future, not the past. Additionally, **distribution networks** – the poles and wires that actually connect homes and businesses – must be upgraded or built anew in many areas to reduce losses and handle new loads (like electric vehicles or electric cooking replacing charcoal). International development programs can help fund last-mile grid expansion in underserved communities, complementing off-grid solutions. - **Encourage Regional Power Market Integration:** Electric grids and markets often stop at national borders, leading to fragmentation that raises costs and reduces reliability. For instance, the western United States is split among 38 separate grid balancing authorities, and similarly, many regions in the world have numerous small grids that operate in isolation. **Integrating regional electricity markets** allows countries to trade power, share backup capacity, and tap the cheapest energy available. Europe’s internal energy market is a prime example, and now efforts are underway in other regions – for example, West African countries are working through the West African Power Pool (WAPP) to create a unified market, and some Southeast Asian nations are exploring power trade. These efforts should be accelerated. If legislative or regulatory barriers exist, governments should pass laws to enable cross-border grid connections and align standards. The **International Energy Agency** and regional bodies can assist with the technical and market design needed. In the U.S., recent moves (FERC approvals in 2023–25) aimed to enable a western-region market; globally, we should see similar momentum for an interconnected _African grid_, a _South Asian grid_, etc. The end goal is a more **resilient and efficient international network** where, for example, excess hydropower in one country can flow to a neighbor facing a drought, or midday solar surplus in one region can be sent to another where it’s evening peak time. Such connectivity is also a form of diplomacy and cooperation, binding nations together through shared infrastructure. - **Bolster Supply Chains for Critical Infrastructure:** A frequently overlooked aspect of grid modernization is the **supply chain** for components. Right now, a shortage of key equipment – notably high-voltage transformers – is a serious bottleneck worldwide. These massive devices (essential for substations) have few manufacturers, and fulfilling orders can take years (36–48 months as noted in recent U.S. data). In developing countries, the wait and cost can be even longer, hampering efforts to expand grids or replace aging units. We need a global strategy to expand manufacturing capacity and diversify production of transformers, smart meters, batteries, and other critical grid hardware. This could involve **targeted investments and public-private partnerships**: for instance, development finance institutions could fund new factories in regions like Africa or South Asia to produce transformers locally, creating jobs and cutting lead times. Large economies can also use tools akin to the Defense Production Act (which the U.S. can invoke to support industrial supply chains) – for example, by treating clean energy equipment as a strategic sector and offering loans or purchase guarantees to scale up production. International standardization of equipment specifications can further open the market to more players, including firms in emerging markets. The bottom line is that we must ensure the nuts-and-bolts of the energy transition (wires, towers, silicon chips, etc.) are available when and where needed. A coordinated global approach to supply chains will make the transition faster and more secure for all participants. - **Integrate Energy and Digital Infrastructure Development:** Modernizing infrastructure isn’t just about electrons flowing through wires – it’s also about bits flowing through fiber optics and airwaves. Energy and digital networks increasingly go hand-in-hand: smart grids require telecom links; data centers need both power and connectivity. As such, regions should plan electricity and broadband rollouts together. An area with a new solar microgrid could also be a hub for community Wi-Fi or cellular coverage, enabled by the power supply. Conversely, telecom towers can be powered by solar-plus-battery systems to extend coverage into off-grid areas. International programs (like the World Bank’s initiatives on digital infrastructure or the UN’s **EDISON Alliance** mentioned in the Nigeria microgrid example[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/09/startup-reliable-power-nigeria//#:~:text=electricity%20supply.%20%2A%20Start,affordable%20access%20to%20digital%20solutions)) are emphasizing this synergy, aiming to deliver “digital connectivity for all” alongside energy access. We support an integrated approach: **every new energy infrastructure project is an opportunity to piggyback digital infrastructure**, and vice versa. This not only improves efficiency but ensures communities get the full benefit of connectivity – the ability to use the AI tools, online education, telemedicine, and digital services that modern electricity can power. Infrastructure may not be a glamorous topic, but it is the **foundation of inclusive progress**. By building smarter, more integrated networks now, countries can avoid the lock-in of outdated systems and **leap directly into a connected, clean energy future**. The policies and examples above show that it’s possible – from AI-optimized grids in advanced economies to community microgrids in Nigeria, and regional market initiatives in Africa and Asia. What’s needed is the political will and international solidarity to implement these solutions at scale. This includes updating regulatory models (so utilities and telecom providers focus on service and efficiency, not just capital expansion) and mobilizing financing for infrastructure (potentially through global green bonds or infrastructure funds open to institutional investors seeking sustainable assets). Modern infrastructure connects people to opportunity – whether that opportunity is a light to study by, a cell signal to sell crops by, or a data center job in one’s hometown rather than abroad. In the next section, we turn to the human element: equipping the world’s people with the **skills and opportunities** to thrive in this new era. ## 3. Invest in People: Building an Inclusive Workforce for the Future Technology and infrastructure alone are not enough – it’s people who ultimately drive innovation and reap its benefits. To build an **energy-abundant, AI-empowered future** that is inclusive, we must invest in developing the human capital needed to design, construct, maintain, and leverage these advanced systems. This means training the next generation of electricians, technicians, engineers, data scientists, and skilled workers in every region. It also means ensuring opportunities are accessible to **all segments of society** – including women, rural communities, and other underrepresented groups – so that the coming wave of jobs does not leave anyone behind. Modern workforce development is a cornerstone of this global call to action. Consider the following: - **Scaling Global Skill-Building Initiatives:** Since 2017, Google’s _Grow with Google_ program has trained over **1 million people globally** (and 12 million in the U.S.) in digital skills like cybersecurity and data analytics. This demonstrates the impact large tech companies can have in upskilling the workforce. Such efforts need to be expanded and emulated to reach millions more in the Global South. For example, Navon is committed to empowering communities by combating brain drain and enabling local talent to thrive in their home countries[navonworld.com](https://www.navonworld.com/#:~:text=We%E2%80%99re%20a%20relentless%20team%20of,that%20makes%20the%20impossible%20possible). Partnerships between tech firms, non-profits, and educational institutions can deliver content ranging from basic digital literacy to advanced AI programming, often through online platforms or local training hubs. We should particularly focus on programs that blend digital and energy skills – for instance, training youths in a community on both solar panel installation and computer literacy creates dual pathways for employment. **Mobile training labs** and e-learning can help reach remote areas; one successful model has been the use of televised or radio instruction for basic skills in areas without internet, which can be supplemented with occasional in-person workshops. - **Address the Trades Gap – Electricians and Technicians Needed:** A startling reality is that many countries already face or are on the brink of skilled labor shortages in the very fields required for the energy and digital transition. In the United States, for example, a **shortage of electricians** looms – McKinsey estimates an additional 130,000 electricians will be needed by 2030 just to build out data centers, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy projects. Yet each year, more electricians retire than new ones join the trade. This trend is not unique to the U.S.; **many countries report deficits in tradespeople like electricians, welders, and grid technicians**[irena.org](https://www.irena.org/News/articles/2024/Jul/Key-Enablers-to-Triple-Renewables-by-2030-Skills-and-Capacities#:~:text=These%20jobs%20will%20require%20matching,planners%2C%20regulators%20and%20system%20operators). At the same time, underemployment is high among youth in parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America – a mismatch that signals an opportunity. Governments and industries should mount a “**talent mobilization**” to recruit, train, and employ the workforce needed for an energy-abundant future. This includes updating curricula and expanding capacity at vocational schools, polytechnics, and engineering colleges to graduate far more electricians, solar technicians, coders, and data center operators. International cooperation can help standardize certifications so that skills are portable – for example, an electrician’s certification could be recognized across a region (much like how some trade licenses have reciprocity between U.S. states[irena.org](https://www.irena.org/News/articles/2024/Jul/Key-Enablers-to-Triple-Renewables-by-2030-Skills-and-Capacities#:~:text=These%20jobs%20will%20require%20matching,planners%2C%20regulators%20and%20system%20operators), we could pursue similar agreements across borders). Moreover, the training must incorporate **21st-century technologies**: electricians should learn about installing EV chargers and smart meters, not just household wiring; data center technicians should learn about AI optimization and cybersecurity along with hardware maintenance. By elevating these careers and providing clear pathways (with good wages), we can attract more young people to these vital jobs. - **Promote Apprenticeships and Community-Based Training:** One of the best ways to develop practical skills is through **apprenticeship programs** that combine classroom learning with on-the-job training. Many successful models exist – from Germany’s well-known apprenticeship system to grassroots programs in developing countries where master craftspeople train apprentices in solar installation or plumbing. Governments should incentivize companies (utilities, construction firms, tech companies) to create apprenticeships and internships, possibly with wage support or tax credits. Community colleges and local training centers should be empowered and funded to deliver energy and tech education that is linked to local industry needs. For example, a community college in Kenya might partner with a solar microgrid company to train technicians, guaranteeing employment for graduates. In India, programs to train women in installing and maintaining solar lamps (like the “Solar Saheli” initiatives) have not only provided jobs but also helped spread sustainable energy in villages. **Registered apprenticeship programs** provide a structured pathway into trades and could be expanded globally with support from governments and NGOs – ensuring apprentices get recognized credentials at completion. Scaling these approaches will require coordination between educational institutions, government labor agencies, and the private sector, but the payoff is a robust pipeline of skilled workers ready to build and sustain modern infrastructure. - **Invest in STEM Education and Lifelong Learning:** To truly seize the opportunities of AI and advanced energy, countries must cultivate a broad base of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) expertise. This starts at early education – making sure every child, regardless of gender or background, has access to quality science and math education and computer literacy. It continues through higher education and beyond. Scholarships, mentorship programs, and targeted recruitment can bring underrepresented groups into STEM fields (for instance, programs to encourage more women in engineering or more rural youth in computer science). Additionally, as technology evolves rapidly, **continuous upskilling** is crucial even for the current workforce. Governments and companies should facilitate lifelong learning, offering short courses on new technologies (like AI, IoT, or battery management) so that engineers and technicians can update their skills without having to leave the workforce. Online platforms (Coursera, Khan Academy, etc.) and open educational resources can make this more accessible. Importantly, this also prevents the creation of a **digital divide** in skills – we need both the young and the existing workers to be comfortable working with advanced tech. This human capacity will determine whether countries can fully leverage new infrastructure or if expensive assets go underutilized due to lack of know-how. - **Foster Local Innovation and Entrepreneurship:** Beyond formal jobs, people should be empowered to innovate and start businesses that utilize AI and clean energy in locally relevant ways. A supportive ecosystem – including incubators, access to finance, and mentorship – can encourage entrepreneurs in Nairobi or Bogotá or Dhaka to develop the next big idea in smart agriculture, fintech, or clean energy deployment. These entrepreneurs often best understand their community’s needs. For example, the rise of mobile money and solar home systems in East Africa was largely driven by local startups and social enterprises. By investing in people’s skills and providing platforms like **Navon** – which envisions unlocking local data economies and giving communities tools to transform local challenges into global opportunities[navonworld.com](https://www.navonworld.com/#:~:text=We%E2%80%99re%20a%20relentless%20team%20of,that%20makes%20the%20impossible%20possible) – we can spur a grassroots innovation wave. This not only creates jobs and wealth locally but also ensures solutions are culturally appropriate and sustainable in the long term. This moment calls for a **global focus on workforce development** – not just to meet the AI opportunity, but to train the human power that will actually construct and run the infrastructure of the future. Encouragingly, we see promising efforts: for instance, Google.org (Google’s philanthropic arm) has granted funds to initiatives integrating advanced tech into electricians’ training programs, aiming to strengthen the electrical workforce pipeline by 70% in coming years. Likewise, international organizations like IRENA emphasize that tripling renewable energy by 2030 will require tackling skills gaps head-on, as many countries lack sufficient engineers and policy planners for the energy sector[irena.org](https://www.irena.org/News/articles/2024/Jul/Key-Enablers-to-Triple-Renewables-by-2030-Skills-and-Capacities#:~:text=These%20jobs%20will%20require%20matching,planners%2C%20regulators%20and%20system%20operators). No single company or government can fix these shortfalls alone; a **shared public and private commitment** is needed. By coordinating efforts – such as aligning education curricula with industry needs, creating public-private training centers, and sharing successful models across borders – we can develop the workforce required for an equitable energy transition. When the world’s youth and workforce are equipped with the right skills, they don’t just earn a livelihood; they become active participants in solving our global challenges, driving further innovation in their communities. In short, **investing in people is the multiplier** that makes all other investments yield lasting returns. ## Conclusion: A Call to Action for Global Equity and Innovation Around the world, there is a growing recognition that AI and clean energy are not luxuries or solely the domain of advanced economies – they are **necessities for sustainable development and shared prosperity**. The next era of innovation must be powered in a way that is inclusive, equitable, and mindful of our planet’s limits. We have the tools, knowledge, and capital to make this happen, but it will require unprecedented collaboration and bold leadership across both public and private spheres. This global call to action, authored from Navon’s perspective, urges **governments, industry, international organizations, and communities** to unite in implementing the strategies outlined above. Concretely, this means: - **Governments** in every country should adopt policies that embrace innovation (like flexible regulatory sandboxes for new tech), remove barriers (streamlined permits and grid regulations), and center equity (subsidies or support targeting rural and low-income populations for energy access). They should also actively participate in international frameworks – from climate finance mechanisms to multilateral research initiatives – recognizing that challenges like climate change and digital divides transcend borders. Importantly, policymakers in the Global South can leverage this moment to **leapfrog**: by adopting cutting-edge clean technologies and inclusive digital strategies now, they avoid the costly mistakes of the past and set their countries on a cleaner, more resilient development path. - **International Institutions and Development Partners** – including the United Nations (with its Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG7 on energy and SDG9 on industry/infrastructure), the World Bank and regional development banks (African Development Bank, Asian Development Bank, Inter-American Development Bank), and global alliances (like the **UN Sustainable Energy for All** initiative) – should prioritize funding and technical assistance for the reforms and projects identified here. This could involve expanding investment in grid interconnections, underwriting risk for innovative projects, or convening stakeholders to share best practices. For example, regional development banks could co-create financing facilities specifically for modern grid infrastructure or workforce training programs in emerging markets. The **IEA, IRENA, and other technical agencies** can continue to provide data, roadmaps, and forums for cooperation, ensuring that policy is guided by evidence and successful experiences from around the world. - **Private Sector and Industry Leaders** have a pivotal role to play as innovators and implementers. Companies like **Google** have demonstrated what is possible by investing in AI research, renewable energy procurement, and efficiency technologies at scale. Going forward, tech companies and energy companies should partner with governments in emerging markets to deploy demonstration projects – whether it’s a AI-driven grid management pilot in Southeast Asia or a new battery storage farm in Africa – showing that these innovations can work in diverse contexts. **Navon** and similar platforms exemplify how mission-driven entrepreneurship can accelerate this agenda: by designing and operating deep technology infrastructure that is sustainable and tailored to local needs, Navon is actively working to _“empower universal access”_ to technology for a resilient future[navonworld.com](https://www.navonworld.com/#:~:text=,an%20equitable%20and%20resilent%20future)[navonworld.com](https://www.navonworld.com/#:~:text=technology%20that%20makes%20the%20impossible,possible). The broader private sector can join in by ensuring their investments consider underserved regions, by sharing intellectual property where appropriate (for instance, open-sourcing certain clean tech designs to drive global adoption), and by training and hiring locally to build capacity. - **Communities and Civil Society** must also be at the heart of this effort. A grassroots perspective ensures that solutions serve the people on the ground. Community organizations can help identify the most urgent local needs – be it a village that needs a microgrid, or a city neighborhood that could benefit from a tech hub. They also play a role in holding institutions accountable to equity commitments. Inclusion of women’s groups, indigenous communities, and youth representatives in planning processes leads to more culturally appropriate and widely accepted projects, whether it’s a land for a solar farm or the curriculum of a training program. Around the world we’ve seen that when communities are genuinely engaged – such as co-operatives running renewable energy projects or local advisory councils for data initiatives – the outcomes are more successful and sustainable. This call to action thus endorses a **people-centered approach** to innovation: progress is not measured just in megawatts or algorithms, but in how many lives are improved, how many opportunities are created. In closing, powering a new era of _global_ innovation is not a vision for some distant future – it is a task for **right now**. The 2020s can be remembered as the decade we set the foundation for a more equitable and connected world. We have outlined how accelerating clean energy, modernizing infrastructure, and empowering people can together create a virtuous cycle: more energy and connectivity fueling AI and economic growth, which in turn provides resources to further invest in communities and climate-friendly technology. The benefits of this cycle will be shared globally – cleaner air, economic opportunities in the Global South and North alike, more stability in our climate, and a richer human experience as millions more minds join the digital knowledge society. The path forward will require courage to reform old ways of doing things and imagination to try new approaches. But examples cited in this paper – from AI optimizing grids in the U.S., to solar microgrids electrifying Nigerian businesses, to international alliances tackling finance – show that **it is possible**. Each success story can be replicated and scaled with the right support. The call to action now is to all of us: whether you are a minister in a government, a CEO of a tech company, an engineer, a teacher, or an activist – find ways to contribute to this shared mission. It might be through policymaking, through investment decisions, through research, or through community organizing. By **powering innovation as a global community**, we reclaim the notion of progress as something that belongs to everyone. Let us commit to an era where advanced technologies like AI and modern energy infrastructure are deployed not just where it’s easiest or most profitable, but where they can do the most good. In doing so, we will unleash human potential on a truly global scale and light the way to a future of **equity, access, and opportunity for all**. ### **Sources** - Google Public Policy. _Powering a New Era of American Innovation_ (White paper), 2023. [PDF]. - International Energy Agency (IEA). _Electricity Demand Outlook_ – Highlighting emerging economies’ share in demand growth[iea.org](https://www.iea.org/energy-system/electricity#:~:text=Most%20of%20the%20additional%20demand,the%20overall%20economy%20since%202020)[iea.org](https://www.iea.org/energy-system/electricity#:~:text=The%20contours%20of%20a%20new%2C,and%20data%20centres%20and%20AI). - World Economic Forum. “Powering the future: How to meet global energy demand in the age of electricity,” 19 Mar 2025 – noting 85% of demand growth in emerging markets[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/03/key-steps-for-meet-the-growing-global-demand-for-electricity/#:~:text=shift%20to%20electric%20power). - PwC, _“Sizing the Prize”_ (Global AI impact report) – AI to add $15.7 trillion (14%) to global GDP by 2030[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2017/06/the-global-economy-will-be-14-bigger-in-2030-because-of-ai/#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20new%20report%2C,of%20China%20and%20India%20combined), but uneven gains across regions[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2017/06/the-global-economy-will-be-14-bigger-in-2030-because-of-ai/#:~:text=Europe%20and%20developed%20countries%20in,less%20than%206). - World Economic Forum. “This start-up is using microgrids to bring reliable electricity to Nigeria,” 13 Sep 2024 – Example of solar microgrids for SMEs[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/09/startup-reliable-power-nigeria//#:~:text=electricity%20supply.%20%2A%20Start,affordable%20access%20to%20digital%20solutions)[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/09/startup-reliable-power-nigeria//#:~:text=But%20in%20a%20country%20where,inefficient%20energy%20source%3A%20petrol%20generators). - World Economic Forum. “Unlocking renewable energy future in emerging markets,” Dec 2024 – Only one-fifth of clean energy investment is in EMDEs[weforum.org](https://www.weforum.org/impact/clean-energy-in-emerging-markets//#:~:text=Our%20climate%20future%20largely%20depends,is%20taking%20place%20in%20EMDEs) and call for global action to increase it. - IRENA. “Key Enablers to Triple Renewables by 2030: Skills and Capacities,” Aug 2024 – Emphasizing workforce skill gaps (electricians, engineers) in many countries[irena.org](https://www.irena.org/News/articles/2024/Jul/Key-Enablers-to-Triple-Renewables-by-2030-Skills-and-Capacities#:~:text=These%20jobs%20will%20require%20matching,planners%2C%20regulators%20and%20system%20operators) and need for coordinated action on education and training. - Google (Grow with Google initiative) – Trained over 1 million globally in digital skills since 2017, demonstrating scalable skill development programs. - Navon (Navonworld.com) – Mission statement and vision of empowering universal access to deep technology and clean energy for an equitable future[navonworld.com](https://www.navonworld.com/#:~:text=We%E2%80%99re%20a%20relentless%20team%20of,that%20makes%20the%20impossible%20possible).