Gaining access to modern forms of energy remains a crucial but under-recognised aspect of poverty reduction in the Global South. Practical Action has long been recognised as a leading authority on energy access, with decades of development programme and project experience worldwide upon which to base its policy and practice recommendations. To mark the UN Year of Energy in 2012, Practical Action has published some of its best practical briefings and case study material for the benefit of energy development practitioners around the world. The handbook collects together in a single volume the best of Practical Action's briefing papers on the generation, delivery and use of energy. From decentralized energy solutions such as micro-hydro to improved wood-burning stoves, the briefs are based on technologies adopted successfully in a range of countries and over many years.