This booklet explains how to supply power to developing countries, distribute it to the potential users and ensure that it improves the national economy.

The implications of power supplies are also outlined: the social as well as the economic effects; the possibility of establishing new rural industries; the credit facilities needed to finance small power plants; the transport of fuel and transmission of power; and the national and local planning involved.

After defining the methods of converting fuel, coal, oil, wind, sun and water, into energy, the book compares the costs and limitations of small and large power plants.

As the costs of bringing traditional methods of power supply to scattered populations is enormous, the author gives attention to solar generators, wind mills and plants running on organic waste.