Africa is sleeping giant on renewable energy potential, with only seven percent of its vast geothermal, wind and solar energy potential currently being used. This is despite a huge percentage of the population (4 out of 5) yet to be connected to a power grid. It also lags behind the globe when it comes to
adoption of renewable energy, despite hosting emmense green energy potential.Ijayo, a continental think tank on matters green energy has vowed to fill the void by launching the initiative atthe inaugural Africa Climate Summit opening today in Nairobi to September 6.
The lobby seeks to foster partnerships and support towards growing investments in green energy solutions that
provide a sustainable path towards greening Africa economic development.
According to the Enzi Ijayo kk Director, Charles Wanguhu the initiative seeks to foster energy transition policies and solutions that are inclusive, equitable, accountable and contribute to socio-economic development in Africa.
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he said. Such solutions, he added, are expected to provide actionable outcomes to push Africa connect her people to the
green power grid at the time studies forecasts that just above a half a billion Africans will remain unconnected in
2030.
A survey by Enzi Ijayo has outlined basic challenges hurting the continent’s energy sector, including low access
rate, heavy reliance on expensive thermal plants and the region’s vulnerability to fluctuations in global fuel prices, making it susceptible to economic instability.
Africa requires close to $700 billion a year in investment to respond to these challenges, even as countries are simultaneously trying to support rising energy demand, and to do so reliably, affordably, and securely.
To realise this, the Enzi Ijayo insists that the government must set up an enabling policy environment that promotes renewable energy, investment, and infrastructure development.
“These should include clear targets, financial incentives, and streamlined regulations. Additionally, fostering
innovation and supporting research in renewable technologies is crucial,”
Wanguhu said.
It adds that Africa can transform its energy utility companies into successful entities by creating separate entities for household, commercial, and industrial power, increasing investments in infrastructure, accessibility, enhancing grid reliability, reducing transmission losses, and investing in smart grid technologies.
According to the report, utilizing public-private partnerships and green bonds or blended finance can increase global funds for renewable energy development in Sub-Saharan Africa, unlocking the region’s potential for sustainable energy production and promoting socio-economic advancements.
