In a powerful presentation at the Uinta Basin Collaborative meeting on March 23, 2025, the stark reality of energy poverty was brought to light through the story of Lena, a 65-year-old woman from Kenya. Lena represents one of the staggering 2.1 billion people worldwide who still rely on traditional cooking methods, using firewood and other biomass fuels, which not only consume their time but also pose severe health risks due to indoor air pollution.

Lena's daily routine is a grueling testament to the challenges faced by many in similar situations. She spends hours collecting firewood, often walking up to six kilometers to gather the necessary materials for cooking. Once back home, she prepares meals in a smoke-filled kitchen that lacks proper ventilation, exposing her and her family to harmful pollutants. The indoor air pollution from such cooking methods is responsible for approximately three million deaths annually, surpassing fatalities from diseases like HIV and malaria combined.

The presentation highlighted the urgent need for modern cooking solutions, such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which could significantly improve the quality of life for families like Lena's. However, accessibility and affordability remain major barriers. While 20% of Kenyans have access to LPG, the majority cannot afford the initial costs of equipment and refills, forcing them to continue using firewood.

To address these challenges, the Bettering Human Lives Foundation is implementing a market-driven approach by providing low-interest loans to local entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to expand LPG distribution and make it more affordable for families. One such entrepreneur, Ben, is set to bring LPG cylinders closer to rural communities, allowing families to pay for their cooking fuel over time rather than in a lump sum.

The meeting underscored the importance of raising awareness about energy poverty and the need for collective action to tackle this global issue. As the world moves forward, the hope is that more families will gain access to clean, safe cooking solutions, transforming their daily lives and health outcomes.