Africa’s energy transition calls for pragmatic measures to keep the continent competitive

Abstract

The current geopolitical shock arising from the crisis in Ukraine has compounded the severe impacts already being felt by African countries because of the socio-economic impacts increasing climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. The global drive for a green transition and net zero emissions present African countries with risks and enormous opportunities. At the same time, Africa’s energy access and transition must be compelling and must be defined and owned by Africa. A key incentive for huge investments in Africa is the prospect of a strong and reliable energy system with high flexibility that can integrate increased shares of variable renewable power (solar photovoltaic and wind). System flexibility could come through generation, transmission and distribution and storage infrastructure, as well as through demand-side management to integrate high shares of renewable energy. There is an opportunity for Africa’s gas market to develop to fill this gap and serve domestic and international markets. Africa, with its rich gas reserves, would need to attract investments towards achieving this renaissance.