Turning a New Leaf

With each passing day, countries are taking more action towards turning a new leaf in their energy industries. These actions, including new project developments, ensure the gradual global effort to transition into renewable energy sources.

Apart from these energy sources being sustainable, they also do well to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; Not to mention that the sustainability of the energy industry of any country is a major factor that determines economic growth and development.

The Costa Rican Electricity Institute and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) recently launched a programme to encourage wind energy development in the Central American country.

Despite this and many other renewable energy projects being developed globally, African countries do not seem to be turning a new leaf. At least, not even close to the same pace as the rest of the world.

According to a report titled ‘Tracking SDG7: The Energy Progress Report’, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and current energy policies, about 660 million people would still lack access to energy in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.

However, the energy access rate on the continent provides an opportunity for a unified transitioning across African countries. Although financing may be an issue, investors would be attracted to the continent’s energy market if African governments show a more committed stance on renewable energy adoption.

Turning a new leaf in Africa’s energy space holds a lot of promise for the continent in energy provision and job creation, security, and overall economic development. Also, the continent would be meeting its end of the bargain on climate goals since renewable energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions.