Energy efficiency could yield impressive results in Africa
By Isaac Twumasi-Quantus in Accra.
Today I want to take a look at energy efficiency – but how far has Africa come along? The challenge of energy efficiency falls low on the list of priorities for many developing countries. The pursuit of rapid economic growth and stability often eclipses considerations of the effective use of energy.
Africa has several urban and metropolitan cities, and therefore has an energy intensive building stock that requires a stable energy supply. On the other hand, the continent as a whole suffers from a high poverty rate and low GDP per capita.
In addition, the continent has experienced rolling blackouts since, and electricity generation capacity barely manages to meet the ever growing demand. I want to suggest African governments to take a look at energy efficiency as one way to relieve the problem.
South Africa’s electricity supply for example comes almost entirely from a single utility, Eskom. The price of electricity is among the lowest in the world, though it is scheduled to increase annually in South Africa, prompting many energy users to examine ways to reduce energy consumption. Eskom offers subsidies for certain types of energy efficiency equipment in buildings, but funding for energy efficiency from Eskom has historically been spotty. The South African government is at the forefront of the energy efficiency charge in the country.
We need to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency markets in West Africa, formulate policy, build capacity and quality assurance mechanisms, as well design financing plans.
The current energy system in the Africa, in my estimation is failing to support the growth prospects of the people especially the needs of the poor.
It is only when we invest in renewable energy systems and introduce energy efficient technologies that will contribute to the region’s economic and social development without harming the environment.
Traditional biomass is already the main source of energy for the poor majority in Africa. There are also considerable wind, tidal, ocean thermal and wave energy resources available. The region has vast solar energy potential. Africa’s energy efficiency story is still developing, and the next five years will determine the success of these programs.
This article was originally posted on West Africa Business Communities
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