Renewable energy transition in Senegal? Exploring the dynamics of emerging paths to a sustainable energy system

Abstract

Research into the transition of energy systems has attracted considerable attention in recent years from a wide range of disciplines and perspectives. From evolutionary economic geography (EEG), scholars have emphasized the processes underlying the formation of new energy paths in energy system transitions. These processes have been well studied in Global North countries, but insights into the processes shaping the energy transition in sub-Saharan Africa are still limited. This study provides a contribution to fill that gap by exploring the emerging energy paths in Senegal through the lens of EEG, using the framework of regional path creation processes to analyze qualitative interview data from 17 experts in the Senegalese energy sector. Senegal is an instructive country to study, as its energy sector is undergoing substantial reform that has accelerated the deployment of large-scale renewable energy projects in recent years. The study uncovers three parallel evolving energy paths stemming from path transplantation, indigenous path creation, and path upgrading. Each path differs greatly in its legitimation and in the role of institutions as enablers. These results not only contribute to the ongoing scientific debate; but also provide insights for development agencies, national and regional institutions, NGOs and private actors involved in the Senegalese energy system.