Problem

Africa faces significant challenges in achieving SDG7 - universal access to  affordable, reliable, sustainable,erd and modern energy for all. Although Africa has abundant renewable energy resources such as solar and wind, the deployment of clean energy solutions is disproportionately low. Many African utilities struggle with financial viability. Under-collection of bills, aging infrastructure, and operational inefficiencies limit progress. The lack of adequate energy infrastructure, especially in rural areas, limits economic opportunities, education, and healthcare for rural communities.

Responses

Renewable Energy Solutions for Africa (RES4Africa) is a foundation that works to support and catalyse Africa’s just energy transition in order to achieve the SDG7. It functions as a bridge between Europe and Africa, gathering a network of members from all over the clean energy sector from both continents and high-level international partnerships, to foster collaboration among stakeholders and mobilise investments in clean energy technologies.

In 2018, RES4Africa launched a Technical and Vocational Capacity Building Programme. Formerly known Micro-Grid Academy (MGA), this program trains young people in East Africa to accelerate decentralised renewable energy deployment in the region, improving energy access in rural communities while fostering local enterprise development and job creation.  To date, around 1550 people have been trained, and 24 training editions have been implemented on-field. The programme also fosters innovation by awarding grants to youth-led projects and building an alumni network to support local job markets.

Find out more: International Energy Agency (p55-57), RES4Africa