5 African Countries That Are Leading In the Renewable Energy and Technology Space

There is an abundance of natural resources in African countries, making the continent the most relied upon by many countries. Starting from oil, coal, and natural gas stretching to the north and south of the continent. Many African countries are increasing their investments in renewable energy, as lower investment for oil and gas shows that renewable energy has attracted competitive finance. Smaller African countries such as Cabo Verde, Djibouti, and Eswatini have set ambitious renewable energy targets.?On July 24th, Dr Tedd Moya will be speaking on "Integrating Renewable Energy in Africa" in an exclusive masterclass. Book your tickets now! https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/670814302637

With the hope of saving our planet,these 5 countries have implemented proper technology, awareness and skills for harnessing the resources provided in African countries in lingering energy challenges.

South Africa

As the 25th largest country in the world by land and with a population of close to 53 million people, South Africa has the best model for tackling its energy challenge through the use of wind and solar energy. There is a total area of approximately 194,000 km2 of high solar radiation potential including the Northern Cape which is one of the best solar resource areas in the world. Photovoltaic is envisioned to be playing a very significant part in up to 14 percent of supply by the year 2050 in South Africa.

Egypt

Egypt promises its use of hydropower and emergent solar power base. Hydropower contributed 12% of Egypt's electricity production in 2009 and the capacity is about 3664 MW with an estimated energy of 15,300 GWh/annum. The Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy stated that Egypt targets to generate 2300 MW using solar PV in September 2014. Even two ministries in Egypt, the Ministry of Electricity and Energy (MOEE) and the Ministry of Petroleum (MOP) are handling the energy sectors to secure energy production.

Nigeria

Nigeria is blessed with an abundance of solar biomass, wind, hydroelectricity and tidal energy sources. Hydropower energy in Nigeria is at 32,450 GW h/yr and 29,800 GW h respectively, making this country the 9th African country with technical and economic feasibility. Biomass sources are abundant in Nigeria, as fuel wood provides 80 million cubic metres (43.4 × 109 kg) annually for domestic purposes. The energy commission of Nigeria ECN has been distributing millions of compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) free to replace incandescent lamps.

Morocco

Morocco has become a regional leader in renewable energy, particularly in solar power which made this country home to one of the world's largest concentrated solar power plants, the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex. Morocco has set ambitious renewable energy targets and is actively working towards reducing its dependence on fossil fuels. Morocco will become a global hub for green hydrogen production by 2050 where it will rank in the top five global producers, as the country is firmly committed to becoming one of the primary exporters of green hydrogen to Europe.?

Kenya

Kenya is a pioneer in renewable energy in East Africa. It made remarkable progress in harnessing geothermal energy. It is proven with the Olkaria Geothermal Power Plant being the largest in Africa. Lately, the government and Fortescue Future Industries (Australia) envisage the construction of a 300?MW geothermal plant in Naivasha which was signed in mid-March. Kenya has also seen significant investments in wind and solar energy projects, contributing to its clean energy transition, which is now the fastest-growing segment.?

Several countries in Africa are currently starting to look into the framework of their national energy policies on how to overcome the persistent energy crisis in the world by making use of renewable sources of energy provided by nature. Significant investment will be demanded which will continue to fall in line with the national growth and development of these 5 countries. Become a member and stay updated with Africa Sustainable Trade’s.

References:?

Kabir Aliyu, Abubakar, et. al. A review of renewable energy development in Africa: A focus in South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews. Department of Electrical Power Engineering. Universiti Teknologi, Malaysia: 2017.

Price WaterHouse. Africa Energy Review 2021. November 2021.