Over the past decade, much has been learned about sustainable development, including the essential role that energy plays. As experience with many clean energy technologies increases, so does technical progress, which has dramatically lowered the cost of energy from sources such as biomass technologies and wind energy. The focus has now shifted from one of technology, demonstrations and gifts to that of empowerment, markets and investments. This publication explains the REED, 'Rural Energy Enterprise Development' approach, which is a unique new project designed to deliver clean energy services.