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Bridging the energy divide: The impact of finance, political regimes, and international sanctions on renewable energy access

Author

Listed:
  • Sakariyahu, Rilwan
  • Lawal, Rodiat
  • Ajide, Folorunsho
  • Oladipupo, Sodiq

Abstract

Drawing on data from developing countries, this study examines the roles of finance, international sanctions, and political regime types in shaping access to renewable energy. Findings reveal that access to finance significantly improves renewable energy, but its impact weakens under sanctions or in politically constrained environments. Democracies exhibit stronger linkages between finance and renewable energy access, whereas autocratic regimes show a weaker relationship. The findings have vital implications for shaping global renewable energy policies and investment frameworks.

Suggested Citation

  • Sakariyahu, Rilwan & Lawal, Rodiat & Ajide, Folorunsho & Oladipupo, Sodiq, 2026. "Bridging the energy divide: The impact of finance, political regimes, and international sanctions on renewable energy access," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 258(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecolet:v:258:y:2026:i:c:s0165176525005841
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econlet.2025.112747
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • Q54 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Climate; Natural Disasters and their Management; Global Warming
    • Q56 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environment and Development; Environment and Trade; Sustainability; Environmental Accounts and Accounting; Environmental Equity; Population Growth
    • Q58 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environmental Economics: Government Policy
    • F51 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - International Conflicts; Negotiations; Sanctions
    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products

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