April 2020

How a production subsidy can boost Nigeria's renewable energy sector, growth and employment

Despite Nigeria’s status as a major global energy producer, access to electricity is severely limited and much of the country’s population is energy poor. The government has set ambitious targets to mitigate the consequences of CO₂ emissions, reduce energy poverty, and develop renewable energy sources. A team of local PEP researchers found that a 20% production subsidy for Nigeria’s renewable energy sector would help achieve the government’s goals while also supporting growth and employment.

The team shared their findings at a national policy conference in March.
Find out more in the PEP working paper 2020-01 and policy brief 213

Unstable employment reduces wages and well-being of Kyrgyzstan workers

In Kyrgyzstan, more than 70% of the active labour force is employed informally and less than half of wage employees have a permanent job. A team of local PEP researchers found that employment vulnerability (defined as a lack of job security or stability, underemployment, unwanted jobs, or unstable remuneration) reduces workers’ earnings and well-being. The effect is more severe for women who see their earnings reduced by up to 26%.

Find out more in the PEP working paper 2020-03 and policy brief 211