energy

"Africa is fatigued from existing in the shadows. We must illuminate the continent—no exceptions." These compelling words resonated from Akinwumi Adesina in September 2016, mere months after he took on the formidable role as President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB Group). He underscored a crucial issue: electrification on the continent is not merely a luxury; it’s an imperative. Imagine, if you will, a vast expanse of land where cities pulsate with vibrant energy while remote villages grope in darkness.…

In recent developments, Ghana is embarking on an ambitious journey toward an energy transformation. In a nation where renewable energy currently comprises a mere 1% of the overall energy mix, authorities have set a target to elevate this figure to 10% by 2030. A striking step in this direction is the installation of a pioneering floating solar project on the expansive Volta River, a symbolic endeavor that showcases the ingenuity of Ghanaian engineers. Minister of Energy and Green Transition John Jinapor proudly declared…

Climate change is undoubtedly a daunting topic, casting a cloud over much of our discussions. Its status as an existential crisis complicates the search for positive news. Recent developments, particularly with the advent of the second Trump Administration, have intensified these challenges. The administration has systematically rolled back America’s climate commitments, diminishing support for clean technology industries, and even withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement—an unprecedented move for the world's largest…

On the horizon, South Africans face yet another financial challenge. With already precarious economic conditions, the impending electricity price increase of 12.7% slated for April 1, 2025—dubbed "Fossil Fools' Day" by the environmental group Earthlife Africa—has sent shockwaves through households already struggling to make ends meet. When combined with the anticipated 0.5% hike in VAT, families will be forced to grapple with excruciating choices: Should they pay for electricity or for essentials like food and medicine?…

Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently expressed a willingness to consider US President Donald Trump’s proposal for a month-long pause in military action against energy infrastructure in Ukraine. This limited ceasefire is something Ukraine has indicated it is open to evaluating. Despite this development, it's noteworthy that Russia did not provide the full 30-day cessation of hostilities that the United States had advocated for. Experts suggest that President Putin may be using this moment to gain time as Russian…

Imagine waking up a sleeping giant. That's the task that lies at the heart of transforming Africa's energy potential. Rich in resources yet starved of investments, Africa has remained on the sidelines of global energy discussions for far too long. You might wonder how a continent brimming with untapped reserves finds itself in such a predicament. Chronic underfunding over the decades has stymied progress, shackling a land that could fuel not only its own growth but…

Protecting Trade from Regional Conflicts In today's world, large-scale wars reminiscent of the 20th century are relics of the past. However, the persistence of regional conflicts poses its own brand of challenges. As one navigates through these murky waters, it is crucial to ask: are we truly prepared for the complexities these smaller-scale skirmishes unveil? Conflicts in vital corridors of global commerce, especially near bustling shipping lanes, spell huge disruptions. These aren't just…

Imagine being a country with a burgeoning energy sector, only to face a sudden, jolting halt. This has been Egypt's narrative recently, as it navigates a precarious path in securing energy stability. The latest word from reliable corridors is that Egypt is deeply engaged in negotiations with Germany to lease a state-of-the-art liquefied natural gas (LNG) unit. Why now? They forecast a potential surge in demand in the upcoming months. Anticipating needs before they become exigencies is crucial, isn't it?…

Imagine a world where businesses never sleep. The bustling streets of Accra are alive at midnight, factories hum with the rhythm of machinery well past dusk, and digital startups thrive in the quiet hours when most are asleep. This vision could soon become a reality in Ghana, as highlighted by Simon Madjie, the Acting Chief Executive of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC). Madjie, brimming with enthusiasm, spoke about the flagship policy that aims to revolutionize the Ghanaian economy. Dubbed the…

Ethiopia: A Beacon of Renewable Energy in Africa Ethiopia stands at the forefront of Africa's transition into renewable energy. What's truly remarkable is its reliance on eco-friendly energy sources, predominantly hydroelectric power. Have you ever paused to consider how a nation achieves such an environmental feat? This was effectively highlighted by Fitsum Assefa Adela. She articulated that Ethiopia harnesses almost 100% of its electricity from renewable sources through a distinct…