"Burma relies heavily on hydropower for most of its electricity generation (71% in 2011). The electricity sector fails to meet the country?s needs, with about 49% of the total population and 29% of the rural population having access to electricity in 2011, according IEA estimates. In addition, aging power plants and poor electricity transmission infrastructure cause severe power shortages. Consequently, traditional biomass and waste (typically consisting of wood, charcoal, manure, and crop residues) is widely utilized and accounts for about two-thirds of Burma?s primary energy consumption. This has prompted efforts to invest in more hydroelectric, natural gas, and coal-fired electric capacity, improve grid reliability, and promote demand management..."