THE BIPBOP PROGRAMME: Providing access to reliable, affordable and clean energy with a combined approach of investment, offers and training

Universal access to clean energy is a major worldwide concern which has been reaffirmed when 2012 was declared by the United Nations as the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All. Within that framework, multinational corporations are developing inclusive business approaches targeting lowincome populations. To be considered successful, these strategies must participate to development, be sustainable, and impact as many people as possible. We explore the case of Schneider Electric's BipBop programme which aims at promoting access to reliable, affordable and clean energy to the people who need it the most. We provide first key factors contributing to a broader combination of poverty eradication and protection of the environment from multinational corporations: engagement of top management; programme alignment with the strategy of the firm; incorporation of the Groups' entities; balancing global and local actions; measuring social and environmental results.