Abstract

Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General declared that renewables are the only path to real energy security, stable power prices and sustainable employment opportunities. This is more so for African countries with an abundance of renewable potential in solar, wind, geothermal, and biomass resources. However, only 2-in-10 people on the continent have access to clean fuels for cooking, and 5-in-10 have access to electricity (grid or non-grid). The presentation analyses potential, current installed capacity and makes the case for renewables as the energy source that Africa must use for its future to ensure sustainable development. A call to action is issued: Increase solar capacity which has massive potential, but is currently under 3% utilisation. Private sector involvement critical to success – governments must provide good framework conditions. Most or all new investments must be in renewables and and oil subsidies being removed should be reallocated to clean energy. Only a fraction of support should be expected to come from ODA, so projects must be self-financed or with low-interest loans.