By Faridat Salifu
Africa is propelling into a new era of sustainable development with a rapid shift towards renewable energy sources. Despite historic investments in fossil fuels, African leaders are now focusing on renewable energy projects to drive economic growth and address the pressing issue of climate change.
In line with this transformation, the goal to increase the continent’s renewable energy production capacity from 56 GW in 2022 to a commendable 300 GW by 2030 has been set in motion.
Even though Africa receives only 3% of global investment in renewable energies, it possesses tremendous potential, particularly in solar power, with an estimated 7,900 GW. As a result, the sector is attracting significant investment, especially in South Africa and Egypt.
South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme and the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, along with similar initiatives in Egypt, are expected to boost solar power capacity significantly, offering a solution to the ongoing issue of load shedding caused by aging coal-fired power plants.
The continued development of solar energy in these countries is anticipated to drive economic growth and sustainable energy production.
Additionally, momentum in wind power projects is gaining traction, with Morocco’s Noor Midelt program being reinvigorated after years of stagnation, and large-scale solar power initiatives developing across sub-Saharan African countries.
Particularly promising is the development of wind power in Egypt and Ethiopia, with significant wind farms being constructed with the goal of entering commercial service in the near future.
Similar developments in hydroelectric projects, such as the Mphanda Nkuwa megaproject in Mozambique and various other initiatives in Cameroon, Gabon, and Madagascar, are expected to contribute to the continent’s renewable energy transition.
The rise of renewable energy projects in Africa is not only transforming the energy landscape but also providing opportunities for commercial and industrial players, as well as offering sustainable solutions to rural electrification.
These developments signify a promising future for Africa’s renewable energy sector and its crucial role in driving sustainable development and combating climate change.