Access to clean, affordable and reliable power is essential for human health, education and economic prosperity. But while the transition to renewable energy is ramping up globally, many people in Africa still lack electricity connections altogether. In 2021, only about 51% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa had access to electricity, with varying rates per country. More than 80% of the population depends on biomass fuels such as charcoal and wood fuel for their energy needs because alternatives are unavailable or unaffordable.

African countries must strike a balance between rapidly increasing access to electricity and building out low-carbon energy systems for the future. Despite its massive renewable energy potential, the continent still accounts for only 3% of global energy investment. And there has been little research on country-level low-carbon opportunities in Africa to date. Much more research is needed to ensure that decisions on Africa’s energy transition are informed by clear and objective analysis, ideally undertaken at the country level.

Our vision is to provide clean, reliable, affordable power for all communities in Africa while reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Leveraging existing WRI work, our engagements in Africa will focus on deepening collaboration with key institutions to provide direct support on practical challenges. These include unlocking resources; building local capacity to stimulate demand; meeting growing energy needs for industry and small- and medium-sized enterprises; and influencing clean energy transition pathways. 

Our approach is to:

  • Expand energy access and support equitable development. We map access to electricity in underserved areas, identify areas ripe for clean energy development, and ensure that historically marginalized communities are included in energy planning decisions.
  • Support policy reforms that incentivize investment in clean energy, job creation, and capacity-building of the energy workforce.
  • Shape the research agenda on just energy transitions and elevate African perspectives on national, regional and global platforms.
  • Unlock finance for Africa’s clean energy sector.