Apr 29, 20233 min read

Renewable Energy in Africa: Notable Projects & Investments in 2022" - An Informative Roundup

In 2022, there were several energy projects announced and completed in African countries, highlighting the region's growing investment in renewable energy. From solar power to hydropower, these projects are expected to play a crucial role in meeting the continent's energy demands, improving access to electricity and reducing carbon emissions.

One of the most significant energy projects announced in 2022 is the Benban Solar Park in Egypt, which was completed in early 2022. The $2.8 billion solar park is the largest of its kind in the world, with a total capacity of 1.8 GW. It is expected to provide electricity to over 1 million households and displace over 2.4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. The project was financed by several international banks, including the African Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the International Finance Corporation.

Another notable project in Africa is the Grand Renaissance Dam in Ethiopia, which is still ongoing. The hydroelectric dam project has been under construction since 2011 and is expected to be completed in 2023. Once completed, it will have a capacity of 6.45 GW, making it the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa. The project has faced controversy due to its potential impact on downstream countries, such as Egypt and Sudan, but it is expected to provide significant benefits to Ethiopia in terms of electricity generation and economic development.

In addition to these large-scale projects, several smaller renewable energy projects were also announced in 2022. For example, in Nigeria, the government announced plans to develop a 30 MW solar power plant in Bauchi State, while in Rwanda, a 9.5 MW solar power project was completed in the Bugesera district. These projects are expected to contribute to the countries' energy mix and improve access to electricity for millions of people.

These energy projects in African countries have attracted significant investment from international financial institutions and private companies, demonstrating the growing interest in renewable energy in the region. According to a report by the International Energy Agency, investment in renewable energy in sub-Saharan Africa has increased from $10 billion in 2014 to $21 billion in 2018. This trend is expected to continue as countries in the region seek to diversify their energy sources and reduce their carbon footprint.

In conclusion, the energy projects announced and completed in African countries in 2022 highlight the region's growing investment in renewable energy and its potential to meet the continent's energy demands while reducing carbon emissions. The completion of large-scale projects such as the Benban Solar Park and the ongoing construction of the Grand Renaissance Dam in Ethiopia are significant milestones in the region's energy transition. As investment in renewable energy continues to increase, it is expected that more countries in Africa will be able to provide reliable and affordable access to electricity for their citizens.

References:

“Benban Solar Park officially inaugurated in Egypt”, IRENA, February 2022.
“Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam: A looming conflict?”, Al Jazeera, April 2022.
“Nigeria to Build 30MW Solar Power Plant in Bauchi”, This Day, February 2022.
“Solar power in Rwanda: The largest PV plant in East Africa is complete”, ESI Africa, February 2022.
“Renewable energy in Africa: Progress, challenges and the way forward”, International Energy Agency, 2021.