Solar and wind power dominate Africa's new energy projects as continent shifts from coal and hydro
By
Allan Olingo
A bagel you'd recommend to a friend without hedging.
Summary
Africa's energy sector is rapidly shifting from coal and large hydropower dams toward solar, wind, and battery storage projects. New data shows solar accounted for 173 of 322 energy projects announced across Africa last year, far outpacing other sources. A $1.5 billion China-Zambia energy deal exemplifies this transition, including three 300MW solar, wind, and coal projects. Falling technology costs, faster deployment, and growing investor appetite for climate-aligned projects are accelerating the shift, supported by development finance institutions like the African Development Bank and IFC.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledAfrica's next generation of power projects is increasingly being built around solar and wind power and battery storage, as governments and investors shift away from coal and large hydropower dams in search of cheaper, faster and more reliable electricity.
Solar accounted for 173 of the 322 energy projects announced across Africa last year, far outpacing hydroelectric, wind and gas power projects.
Falling technology costs, faster deployment times and a growing appetite among investors for climate-aligned projects are accelerating the transition.
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