West africa energy storage power

Why is energy access a problem in West and Central Africa?

One-half of the people on the continent cannot turn on a fan when temperatures go up, can’t keep food cool, or simply turn the lights on. This energy access crisis must be addressed urgently. In West and Central Africa, only three countries are on track to give every one of their people access to electricity by 2030.

How much money is needed for electricity access in Africa?

We have committed more than $7.8 billion to support 40 electricity access programs, of which more than half directly support new electricity connections. These operations are expected to provide access to 16 million people. The aim is to increase electricity access rates in West and Central Africa from 50 percent today to 64 percent by 2026.

Can a smart management of hydropower help power West Africa?

A smart management of hydropower, combined with solar and wind energy, can provide the flexibility needed to power West Africa and at cheaper cost than using natural gas, according to a simulation model.

What type of energy is used in Africa?

Gas and oil (6% of total in Africa) dominate in north African countries, whereas coal is mainly exploited in South Africa. Nuclear (2% of total in Africa) and geothermal power (1% of total in Africa) have a minor role in the continental electricity generation mix.

What percentage of West Africa's electricity is generated by hydropower?

Hydropower provides 20% of West Africa’s electricity with the remainder mostly generated from natural gas and oil 30, and thus currently accounts for nearly all of its RE. In a few countries, hydropower dominates the generation mix (Fig. 1a ).

Is Africa ready for universal energy access?

As the African continent recovers from COVID-19, now is the critical time to accelerate progress towards universal energy access to drive the region’s economic transformation, promote socio-economic inclusion, and unlock human capital growth.