Energy Poverty in Africa: Looking for Solar Heroes

A challenge we can solve together

Energy poverty is a major challenge in Africa. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), more than 600 million people on the continent don't have reliable electricity. The vast majority of these individuals are found in sub-Saharan Africa. This lack of power makes it difficult for children to receive a proper education, for community centres and health facilities to function properly, and constrains economic progress. It also negatively impacts the overall quality of life. This issue goes against the goals of the Paris Agreement for sustainable energy and slows down progress towards many Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as reducing poverty, improving health and education, and promoting economic growth.

Solar energy in Africa

Renewable energy in Africa is growing slowly, meeting only a third of the demand growth in the last five years; the rest was met with fossil gas.

Northern Africa relies heavily on fossil gas and this trend is spreading to other countries, making it expensive and hard on economies, even though Africa has many renewable energy resources. Despite being the sunniest continent, solar power made up just 3% of Africa’s electricity in 2023.

To limit global warming to 1.5°C, South Africa needs to move away from coal power, while northern African countries need to reduce their reliance on gas power. Also, other African countries should prioritise the development of clean energy sources to meet growing electricity demand without resorting to costly gas. Kenya has demonstrated success in this regard by harnessing wind, solar, and geothermal power to fulfil its electricity needs since 2018.

Building a Brighter Tomorrow, Together

Organizations like Solar Aid, working alongside rural communities, entrepreneurs and development partners, are pioneering creative and innovative solutions to ensure every home, school and clinic has access to clean, safe solar power. Their project is guided by a vision for a world where everyone can access clean energy.

We all have a role to play in addressing energy poverty and building a brighter future. Whether it's supporting organizations like Solar Aid, choosing solar for our own homes, or advocating for policies that promote renewable energy, every action counts. Together, we can create a world where energy poverty is consigned to history.

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