Solar generation is on the rise in Egypt
Between 2018 and 2022, The World Bank have committed $5.7bn to develop energy accessibility across Africa, providing power to around 77million people. The $5.7bn pledge has been focused on developing clean energy projects, particularly solar.
Clean energy, for the World Bank, has been highlighted as a solution to further investment, innovation and industry and drive employment across Africa. In Kenya, local businesses operate into evening hours to feel the full benefit of off grid solar energy. In Tanzania, electrical engineers work on solar energy projects at the Arusha Technical College, the hub for renewable energy studies in the region.
A lot of regions in Africa, like Sub-Saharan Africa, do not have efficient or accessible energy access. Cheap, reliable solar power could be the solution in closing ‘the energy gap’ in Africa and deliver the young population in the country more opportunities to drive economic growth. By 2030, the World Bank expect solar mini-grids to bring high quality, uninterrupted power to 280million people.
Solar is fundamental in unlocking efficient and accessible electricity access in Africa. Ethiopia, Niger, and Nigeria are all feeling the benefits of Solar. 75% of Kenya’s population now has access to energy. The World Bank have also launched the ‘Off Grid Solar Access Project for Unreserved Communities’ to bring solar mini-grids to schools, hospitals, and homes. So far, the projects has provided enough electricity for 1.5million people.
The greatest challenge facing accessible electrification across Africa is the West Africa countries. These countries experience the lowest electrification rates but the highest electricity costs across Africa. To combat this Chad, Sierra Leonne, Liberia and Tago have signed onto the Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention project (RESPITE) to rapidly increase grid connectivity, renewable energy capacity and strengthen regional integration.
Increasing the access to clean, cheap and efficient energy will mean young people across Africa can further their education, develop their skills and begin businesses.
(Image credit: The World Economic Forum)
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