Africa's Total Installed Power Generation Capacity same as Belgium - Study

A study has shown that Africa’s total installed power generation capacity is 147 gigawatts. That’s about the same amount as Belgium’s total capacity, and the equivalent of what China installs every 12 to 24 months.

To turn this around by 2030 and ensure universal electricity access, the International Energy Agency estimates that a $30 billion investment at the minimum would be needed.

The study says   Africa’s future energy needs cannot be met by expensive conventional fossil fuels.

Sadly, few intercontinental efforts to boost installed renewable energy capacity seem to be gaining traction.

However, a number of countries have come to this realization.

Unfortunately, they are not necessarily Africa’s dominant power generators but represent those who have set achievable renewable energy plans in motion.

In these countries, the sheer magnitude of investments being made shows how importantly African governments take the challenge of making the continent energy efficient and sustainable.

The study reveals that over the current decade, Ethiopia is seeking to increase its supply fivefold from 2,000 megawatts (MW) to 10,000MW through renewable energy.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam across the Nile, set to be the biggest dam in Africa when it launches in 2017, will provide the bulk of that with a capacity of 6,000MW.

ATQNEWS