Overcoming Barriers To Solar Energy In Africa: A Focus On Local Manufacturing And Policy – Research

Africa has the fastest-growing population but the lowest rates of energy access globally. About 600 million people lack access to electricity, and 970 million people lack access to clean cooking energy in Africa. Despite having significant renewable energy resources, these remain largely untapped. Key challenges include insufficient investments in renewable energy and reliance on the Global North for technology. Addressing these challenges requires mobilizing resources, strengthening partnerships, and investing in local capacity to accelerate Africa’s energy transition.

Africa faces a dual challenge: a rapidly growing population and the lowest energy access rates globally. As of 2021, approximately 600 million people (43% of the population) lacked access to electricity, and 970 million people lacked access to clean cooking energy. These numbers are projected to increase by 2030, making energy demand a pressing policy issue.

Despite lagging in installed renewable energy capacity, Africa possesses large untapped renewable energy resources. For instance, Africa hosts 60% of global solar resources, yet less than 1% of this potential has been exploited. Solar energy is projected to outcompete other power sources across the continent by 2030. However, local manufacturing of solar panels is minimal, driving up costs. High taxes and tariffs on solar products further exacerbate the issue.

Similarly, about 89% of Africa’s hydropower potential remains untapped. The continent also boasts significant wind resources capable of producing approximately 180,000 Terawatt hours (TWh) annually. Additionally, Africa could produce 30–60 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of green hydrogen by 2050.

Recent Initiatives and Recommendations

Several initiatives and recommendations aim to unlock Africa’s renewable energy potential:

1. Develop Renewable Energy Infrastructure:

• The G20 and other partners should support Africa in unlocking its renewable energy potential, including green hydrogen.
• The African Union (AU) should promote solar plants and other renewable infrastructure.
• The AU should advocate for partnerships between the Global North and African countries for green value chains.
• Strengthen Africa’s participation in renewable energy technology value chains, including lithium-ion batteries.

2. Strengthen Access to Finance:

• The G20 should ensure the Global North adheres to climate finance pledges.
• The AU should support carbon market initiatives and review revenue-sharing frameworks to support energy transition financing.

3. Enhance Technology Transfer:

• The AU should facilitate collaboration and networking to bolster renewable energy research, knowledge sharing, and technology development.
• The AU should advocate for the protection of African intellectual property and support green technology patents.

Case Studies and Initiatives

Several programs support Africa’s renewable energy goals:

• African Union Climate Change and Resilient Development Strategy and Action Plan (2022-2032): Enhances climate cooperation and resilient development.
• Compact with Africa Programme: Advances African climate priorities within the G20.
• Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA): Promotes renewables and green industrialization in Kenya, Ethiopia, Namibia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Zimbabwe.
• Moroni Declaration for Ocean and Climate Action in Africa: Aims to mobilize $15 billion by 2030 for ocean conservation and CO2 sequestration.
• Nairobi Declaration (2023): Sets out plans to progress towards net-zero emissions in Africa.

Conclusion

Africa holds significant renewable energy potential that remains largely untapped. Strategic investments, supportive public policies, and strong international partnerships are crucial to unlocking this potential. By addressing financial, technological, and infrastructural challenges, Africa can transition to sustainable energy and meet its growing demand.