Africa leading the global march toward sustainable power

Africa’s energy sector is at a crossroads but it has the chance to lead the global shift to sustainable power.
Africa is forging a cleaner, brighter future through renewables, innovation, community engagement, and resilience.
For Africa, collaborations with global partners can light the way past the current sustainable energy financial hurdles.

Africa, known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural mix, is now emerging as a key player in the global transition to sustainable energy sources.

As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and seeks to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, the African continent finds itself at a critical juncture in its energy journey.

With abundant renewable resources, innovative technologies, and a growing commitment to sustainable development, Africa is poised to lead the way in the global shift towards clean and green energy.

Africa boasts an abundance of renewable energy resources, including ample sunshine, strong winds, and vast hydropower potential. From the deserts of North Africa to the savannas of East Africa, solar panels are increasingly dotting the landscape, harnessing the sun’s energy to power homes, businesses, and industries.

Wind farms are sprouting along coastlines, and hydroelectric projects are harnessing the continent’s many rivers. These initiatives not only provide clean energy but also create jobs and stimulate economies.

In recent years, African nations have been at the forefront of innovative energy solutions. In West Africa, Ghana has made strides in utilizing waste to generate electricity, reducing both pollution and waste management challenges.

Energy from renewable sources

For instance, Ghana’s 400-kilowatt Hybrid-PV-Biogas-Pyrolysis-Plant transforms 12 tonnes of waste into both bio-fertilizer and energy each day. This initiative aims to provide local farmers with a valuable source of organic fertilizer for farming. The electricity generated is a combination of 200KW from solar energy, 100KW from biogas, and an extra 100KW from the pyrolysis of plastic waste.

Meanwhile, Kenya has embraced geothermal energy, tapping into the Earth’s natural heat reservoirs to provide a reliable source of power. These endeavors are not only transforming local energy landscapes but also inspiring global interest and investment.

Even with a commanding lead of getting 90 per cent of its energy from renewable sources, Kenya is reaching out for support and innovative solutions to ensure that its power grid remains resilient and reliable in the face of growing demand.

A unique aspect of Africa’s sustainable energy journey is its commitment to community engagement and inclusivity. Many projects prioritize local involvement, ensuring that the benefits of clean energy extend to marginalized communities.

“While Africa remains the least electrified continent, it also has the biggest potential for solar mini-grid deployment,” said Gabriela Elizondo Azuela, Manager of the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP).

“Solar mini grids can reach populations today that would otherwise wait years to be reached by the grid. They have the potential to transform the power sector in Sub-Saharan Africa. Through World Bank operations and advice to governments, ESMAP is helping take mini-grids from a niche to a mainstream solution.”

The use of solar mini-grids in Sub-Saharan Africa has surged, going from about 500 in 2010 to over 3,000 currently. These mini-grids are set to provide electricity at rates more competitive than traditional utilities, democratizing reliable power access.

Challenges to sustainable energy leadership

This rapid expansion of solar mini-grids in Sub-Saharan Africa showcases the region’s commitment to innovative and sustainable energy solutions. With over 9,000 additional mini-grid projects in the works for the coming years, the future holds promise for improved electricity access, especially in remote areas.

As these mini-grids continue to grow, they not only bring electricity to communities but also drive economic development, enhance education and healthcare, and create a brighter, more sustainable future for the continent.

However, Africa faces challenges on its path to sustainable energy leadership. Financing remains an obstacle, but collaborations with international organizations and private investors are bridging the funding gap.

Outdated and inadequate grid infrastructure needs substantial upgrades to accommodate renewable energy integration. Moreover, governments must navigate complex policies and regulations to foster an environment conducive to renewable energy development.

As per the African Development Bank, the infrastructure requirements in Africa total to approximately $130–170 billion annually, and there exists an unfunded portion within the range of $68–$108 billion.

African energy landscape receives only three percent of global energy investment, a meager share, as per the International Energy Agency (IEA) 2023 report. This insufficient funding poses a threat to ongoing efforts to diversify energy generation and mitigate the environmental damage caused by fossil fuels.

The IEA emphasizes the need to double energy investment to over $200 billion annually by 2030. This step is crucial for African nations to attain their energy-related development objectives and fulfill their climate action commitments.

A more significant aim is in sight: achieving universal access to affordable electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030 and connecting 90 million people each year, as outlined by the IEA.

Africa’s progress in sustainable energy has far-reaching global implications. As the world seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the continent’s shift towards clean energy contributes significantly to global climate goals.

Tanzania Energy Congress

Furthermore, Africa’s experience in developing and implementing sustainable energy solutions offers valuable lessons and inspiration for other regions facing similar challenges. The Tanzania Energy Congress, set for September 20th-21st, offers a crucial moment to look at sustainable energy in Africa.

The congress will feature government representatives and industry experts. Notable industry speakers include Ewen Denning, COO of Orca Energy Group; Bizimana Ntuyabaliwe, Deputy Managing Director of PanAfrican Energy; Unni Fjaer, VP and Country Manager at Equinor Tanzania; and Martin Tiffen, MD of EACOP. They will share insights on vital topics.

The discussions will cover various topics. These include how the global energy transition affects African policy. They also involve strategies for low-carbon infrastructure projects. Moreover, there’s a talk on fostering sustainable growth through local capacity development. Tanzania’s 5-Year Development Plan will be a focal point, too. Further, the congress will explore international investment prospects.

Additionally, the discussions will focus on promoting women’s participation in the energy sector. There will be a spotlight on the importance of diversity and inclusion for competitive advantage. Lastly, the role of industrialization in shaping the energy landscape will be examined.

Global shift to sustainable power

Africa’s energy sector is at a crossroads. It has the chance to lead the global shift to sustainable power. By using its ample renewable resources, embracing innovation, involving communities, and overcoming challenges, Africa is shaping a cleaner, brighter, and more sustainable future.

As Africa advances toward a greener energy landscape, the world watches eagerly. The continent’s success will profoundly influence global energy and the battle against climate change.