Renewable Energy: Africa commits to a green revolution of 146.5 GW by 2030
The African Energy Chamber, based in Johannesburg, predicts a major transformation of the energy landscape in Africa, with a spectacular increase in renewable energy capacity. According to a recent report, capacity is expected to sextuple, going from 24 gigawatts in 2023 to 146.5 gigawatts by 2030, paving the way for a green revolution on the continent.
The report highlights continued growth beyond 2030, with an expected capacity of 290 gigawatts in 2035 and an impressive rise to 360 gigawatts in 2040.
Currently, Africa has a renewable energy capacity just above 24 gigawatts, mainly powered by onshore wind and solar energy.
The report foresees a doubling of onshore wind capacity to 59 gigawatts by 2030, an increase in solar capacity to 65 gigawatts, and a surge in renewable hydrogen projects to 22.5 gigawatts.
These three sectors represent 95% of the total renewable energy capacity in Africa by 2030.
Egypt, Morocco, Mauritania, South Africa, and Djibouti are identified as leaders in this energy transition.
Egypt leads with a projected cumulative capacity of over 130 gigawatts, while Mauritania, Morocco, South Africa, and Djibouti follow with ambitious plans to diversify their energy sources.
Although these projections are promising, the report emphasizes that many projects remain in the planning stage.
It calls for increased support from the African Football Confederation (CAF) to accompany the projects and for a thorough reflection on the status of referees, highlighting the crucial importance of this transition for the development of the African continent.
This energy revolution represents a significant step towards sustainability and energy self-sufficiency in Africa, opening new economic opportunities and strengthening the continent’s position in the fight against climate change.
Pedro OKALAMAR
