Legal and Policy Framework Affecting Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Deployment in Cameroon

Abstract

Cameroon has experienced economic growth accompanied by increasing energy demand and inadequate supply. The increased inefficient use of energy in almost all sectors of the economy leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions and high consumer energy costs. The country largely depends on hydropower and acute shortage of energy is often experienced in almost all sectors especially during the dry season when the volume of rivers drops. With the negative impact of climate change on water resources, there is a need for hydropower-reliant country such as Cameroon to diversify and integrate other renewable energy forms into its energy mix. Cameroon is blessed with abundant renewable energy resources that can be exploited to boost economic development. Given that policies for promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency have played a crucial role in accelerating the deployment of these technologies in many countries, this paper examines the legal and policy framework influencing the deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency in Cameroon. An analysis of the significant renewable energy policy, regulatory and institutional frameworks is undertaken with focus on key policy mechanisms and programmes that lead to the boost or setback in renewable energy and energy efficiency deployment. The paper identifies major barriers to large scale deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and proffers possible solutions.