Sustainable Renewable Electricity Access in Africa

In a recent article published in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, researchers have underscored the imperative need for sustainable pathways towards universal access to renewable electricity in Africa. The study highlights that half of the African population currently lacks the minimum levels of electricity access as defined by the International Energy Agency. It also notes that, given the limited fossil fuel dependency and the necessity for energy infrastructure expansion, it is feasible for some African countries to bypass fossil fuel dependency altogether and transition directly to renewable energy (RE)-based electricity systems.

The study examines the trends in Africa’s RE development and access at a national level and examines the respective country-specific capacities to lead the transition to sustainable RE. The researchers assert that if all existing wind, solar, and hydropower plants operate at full capacity and all proposed plants are implemented, 76% (1,225 TWh) of the electricity needs projected for 2040 could be met by RE (82% hydropower, 11% solar power, and 7% wind power). Decreasing costs for solar photovoltaics and wind turbines show promise for leading sustainable RE pathways while also safeguarding freshwater ecosystems.

Furthermore, the study proposes that efficiently combining the advantages of hydropower with wind and solar will be a more sustainable alternative to hydropower alone. As each country’s resource potential varies, transnational electricity sharing is recommended to distribute resources and share nationally produced peak capacity. The researchers also stress the necessity for comprehensive investigations to assess and monitor the socioeconomic, political, and ecological impacts of RE development.

The researchers in this comprehensive study have utilized data from authoritative sources such as the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the International Energy Agency, and the International Renewable Energy Agency, among others, to support their findings.

In conclusion, the study underscores the critical significance of sustainable renewable electricity access in Africa and offers a roadmap for the transition to renewable energy as a viable and sustainable alternative. It highlights the need for cooperative efforts and strategic planning to achieve universal access to renewable electricity throughout the continent.

The researchers hope that the findings of this study will inform policymakers, energy stakeholders, and the international community in the development of strategies for sustainable RE development and universal electricity access in Africa.