RENEWABLE ENERGY: THE PARADIGM SHIFT - ENERGY, DEVELOPMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE, KENYA – SOUTH AFRICA CONTEXT

Abstract

Energy resources, and in particular energy services are intimately linked to a nation’s economic growth, development and a sustainable future. Challenges such as access to quality education, healthcare, and housing; and energy shortfalls have hindered development activities of developing countries. Over the last decades, renewable energy coupled with energy efficiency have become cornerstones of clean energy strategies. In this study, energy systems currently used in Africa are reviewed with a focus on renewable energy as the means to boost development, as well as the key to a net-zero carbon economy, which is needed to mitigate the negative environmental impacts caused by climate change. Economically advanced countries in Africa project 100% grid connectivity to their population by 2035 through dedication of huge resources to power generation primarily using fossil fuels. This will however result in progressively high CO2 emissions at generation stage. Data projection between 2014 and 2040 shows such countries having the highest but progressively reducing index from coal use for power generation. Oil and gas indices are significantly lower in comparison to coal, the lowest being gas. If instead of fossil fuel, harnessing of renewable energy sources is explored, the challenge of CO2 emission reduction could be addressed. Though the initial capital investment for solar power generation is relatively high, the operating costs are substantially lower compared to conventional energy sources. Adoption of renewable technology has huge potential to positively steer development and economic engagement and reduce carbon emissions in developing countries.