AbstractThe global energy transition is increasingly recognised as a critical solution to the challenges of climate change, energy poverty, and sustainable development. This study examines the socio-economic and environmental impacts of renewable energy adoption in third-world countries, with a focus on Kenya and Bangladesh as case studies. It highlights the transformative potential of renewable energy technologies, such as solar home systems and microgrids, in reducing energy poverty, improving healthcare and education outcomes, and creating employment opportunities in underserved regions. The analysis further explores the environmental benefits, including significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and the preservation of natural resources, as renewable energy replaces traditional biomass and fossil fuels. Despite these positive outcomes, the study identifies persistent challenges, such as high initial costs of renewable energy infrastructure, a lack of technical expertise, inadequate policy frameworks, and cultural barriers to adoption. Addressing these challenges requires strategic interventions, including enhanced financial mechanisms, capacity-building initiatives, and community engagement programmes. Strengthened policy frameworks and investments in research and development are also essential to scale renewable energy projects and drive innovation. The study concludes with actionable recommendations to support the widespread adoption of renewable energy in third-world countries.