Continental Overview of Renewable Energy in Sub-Saharan Africa

This resource provides a foundational characterization of the energy landscape across the African continent to support research into just energy transitions. It examines current electricity systems, policy frameworks, and the socio-economic implications of integrating renewable energy technologies. By mapping existing data on generation, transmission, consumption, and global production networks (GPNs), the guide aims to contextualize the opportunities and systemic challenges—including infrastructure constraints and data gaps—that national governments face while navigating the transition to sustainable, low-carbon energy.

Key focus areas include:

• Policy and Governance: Analyzes how African governments are adopting "sustainable" and "just" energy transition agendas, while highlighting persistent gaps in implementation and the influence of international actors.
• Energy Infrastructure: Details the state of electricity generation, transmission, and distribution, noting that energy poverty remains a significant barrier to industrialization and economic development.
• Investment Dynamics: Explores the challenges of securing finance for infrastructure, emphasizing that Africa currently receives a minor share of global renewable energy investment.
• Industrial and Labour Impacts: Utilizes a GPN framework to examine wind and solar value chains, specifically looking at the potential for local manufacturing, "green" job creation, and the current reliance on imported technology.
• Country Case Studies: Offers focused attention on Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa to provide insights into diverse national approaches to electricity market reform and renewable integration.

This overview serves as a navigational guide, highlighting that while abundant renewable resources exist, realizing their potential requires overcoming systemic obstacles and integrating energy goals with broader industrial and economic development plans.