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The electricity shortage in sub-Saharan Africa is an opportunity for regional development as addressing the crisis triggers avenues for investment with businesses seeking reliable energy sources.
According to the 2015 Africa Progress Report, the electricity shortages provide a turning point in terms of energy investment.
According to the report, two in every three Africans, or about 621 million people, have no access to electricity.
“Without universal access to energy services of adequate quality and quantity, countries cannot sustain dynamic growth and accelerate progress towards eradicating poverty,” states part of the report.
“When health systems are unable to provide preventive and curative services, people who are already vulnerable face heightened risks. And when shortages of electricity hamper schooling, children lose a chance to escape poverty and build secure livelihoods.
“As the costs of low-carbon energy fall, sub-Saharan Africa could leapfrog into a new era of power generation. Utility reform, new technologies and new business models could be as transformative in energy as the mobile phone has been in telecommunications.
“Renewable energy is at the forefront of the changes sweeping the region, which is registering some of the most remarkable advances in solar, geothermal and wind power,” the report said.
The report added that the region should promote investment in renewable technologies to increase agricultural productivity and improve resilience to climate change.
derick.khumalo
Online Reporter