Energy in Africa – A perfect storm: Solar alone no silver bullet

Sub-Saharan Africa, has immense solar generation potential estimated at 300 to 500 GW by 2050 however solar is not a standalone solution for the region’s energy challenges.

1. Solar Limitations: Solar energy generation is dependent on sunlight and requires reference power (synchronization) to maintain stability. This means it needs to be complemented by other energy sources or technologies, such as grid infrastructure, batteries, or generators.

2. Need for a Balanced Energy Mix: To effectively address chronic energy shortages, the region must invest in a diverse mix of energy sources, including hydro, geothermal, coal, biomass, and large-scale storage solutions. This diversification is crucial, especially given the increasing impacts of climate change, such as droughts affecting hydroelectric power.

3. Decarbonization Goals: As Africa moves towards decarbonization, the importance of a balanced energy strategy should be emphasized. This includes considering sustainable and dispatchable power sources that can provide reliable energy on demand.

4. Holistic Approach: Energy regulators and stakeholders should adopt a comprehensive approach to base load power, focusing on available resources while considering long-term sustainability and decarbonization.

5. Innovation and Future Technologies: We advocate for embracing a mix of technologies, including battery storage and even small nuclear modules in the future, to create a resilient energy system.

6. Investment Challenges: There is a tension between the need for reliable energy sources and the reluctance of capital providers to invest in fossil fuels, particularly coal. This complicates the transition to cleaner energy sources.

7. Focus on Sustainable Solutions: The emphasis should be on leveraging available resources responsibly to ensure energy access without compromising environmental goals.

In summary, while solar energy will play a significant role in addressing energy needs in Sub-Saharan Africa, a multifaceted and balanced approach to energy generation is essential for sustainable development.