Introduction to Energy Access – Data Set

Summary

Global Electricity Access Data Set

This data set activity asks students to analyze how electricity access has changed globally over time and how “access” is defined in international statistics. Students study both a chart and a map to interpret long-term trends, compare countries, and think critically about whether basic access is enough to support modern life.

The activity is especially useful for teachers looking for environmental science activities high school, global development data analysis lessons, or energy access graph worksheets. Students examine how access to electricity has improved from 1998 to 2023, evaluate the gap between minimal access and meaningful energy use, and make predictions about future trends. They also compare neighboring countries with different access levels and consider how government investment, infrastructure, and economic conditions affect outcomes.

This makes the resource strong for both science and social studies classrooms, especially where teachers want to combine data interpretation with human development and infrastructure themes.

Extend the Lesson:
Use this Data Set after the Starter Pack to build context, then move into the Energy Insecurity lab to connect global patterns to household-level decisions.