Growing energy security concerns in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are also driving other regions to seek alternative ways to meet their energy needs, including by accelerating clean energy transitions to reduce dependence on imported fuels. This is starting to impact near term investment choices in energy supply, which could herald a faster transition in the current decade. This may increase demand for clean alternatives and accelerate spillover effects, especially in places like Africa that import most of their energy using technologies, vehicles, equipment and appliances.
Africa Energy Outlook 2022 takes account of these recent developments. It maps a new pathway to show how Africa’s collective economic, developmental and environmental goals can best be achieved in the current global context. It aims to serve as a guidebook for energy decision makers in the lead up to COP27, which is to be held in Egypt in November 2022. It was prepared in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and involved the participation of more than 20 independent African energy experts and officials.
This Outlook sets out a continent wide energy strategy, taking into account the unique characteristics of each country and region, which necessitates various pathways. The scenario projections are to 2050, but there is a strong focus on the period to 2030 as decisions taken over the current decade are crucial to the path the African energy sector follows in the longer term. We also present specific case studies of successful policy interventions, financial tools and business models. The aim is that this Outlook will galvanise all actors in Africa’s energy sector and the international community to address the key challenges facing the sector over the coming decade.