Africa is known for its incredible beauty and natural resources. It also possesses extensive potential in wind, solar, hydro, and geothermal energy, which is a prime opportunity for renewable energy to become even more prominent across the continent.

Added to this, decreasing costs are making renewable energy increasingly accessible to countries.

For instance, in 2021, 81% of Kenya's electricity generation was generated from geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar power, showcasing the continent's progress in renewable energy. Kenya especially has large quantities of geothermal energy and has seen exceptional growth in its power sector.

Namibia is another example of innovation when it comes to clean energy. Working together with Hydrogène de France (HDF), the country established what is seen as Africa’s first green hydrogen plant in Swakopmund.

Ghana has also embraced renewable energy with its Ada Foah Wave Energy Project. This project envisioned the construction of a wave energy park, located in the Gulf of Guinea. Using green technologies, this park was expected to generate around 1,000 MW of power.

A call to embrace renewable energy

This focus on the switch to renewable energy has become a key focus area on the continent.

A prime example was the about 50 African scientists, as well as thousands of youth, that in 2023 made their voices heard before the COP28 climate summit as they implored leaders to embrace to chance to move Africa to 100% renewable energy.

The growing emphasis on energy transition can benefit Africa in various ways, as the continent is already harnessing its extensive supply of renewable energy to generate power and is also preparing to increase trade in its abundant store of critical minerals, essential for the global energy transition.

It is clear: Africa can successfully navigate the energy transition and capitalise on the opportunities presented by the global clean energy shift.