THE NEED
THE "DARK CONTINENT"
About 600 million Africans lack access to electricity, creating a significant energy divide that limits progress. While seven nations boast electricity access rates above 50%, the rest of the continent averages just 20%. A stark contrast that underscores the urgency of change.​
This energy shortfall cripples manufacturing output, stifles economic growth, and entrenches poverty. Closing this gap is not merely essential; it is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and unlocking Africa's immense potential.
THE AFRICA DILEMMA
The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs states, “More than half of global population growth between now and 2050 is expected to occur in Africa. Furthermore, of the additional 2.4 billion people projected to be added to the global population between 2015 and 2050, 1.3 billion will be added in Africa.”
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This rapid growth raises a critical question:
Can Africa turn this challenge into an opportunity for transformation?
THE GOAL
The 2030 United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development represents a global commitment to reducing poverty, improving health and education, addressing inequality, and driving economic growth—all while combating climate change and safeguarding humanity’s future.
Central to this vision is Sustainable Development Goal 7: to “Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.”
UNLOCKING THE FULL POTENTIAL OF RENEWABLE ENERGY
Renewable energy from the sun and from wind is great, except when the sun doesn't shine or the wind doesn't blow. The intermittent energy of sun and wind thus limits its ability to provide a consistent and reliable power supply.
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In order to maintain an energy supply 24/7, energy storage is a necessity, allowing any excess energy to be stored.. This stored energy can then be released to accommodate any shortfall or inconsistency from renewable energy sources.
Battery energy storage is critical to fully unlock the full potential of renewable energy, and is a no brainer.
BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE IS AFRICA'S GAME CHANGER
The combination of renewable energy and affordable battery storage is key to unlocking Africa’s potential for reliable, clean energy.
This pairing will lead to significant manufacturing opportunities that will navigate Africa away from being largely an extractive economy.
For Africa, this is a game-changer to help leapfrog Africa into a new era of industrialization.
