Renewable and Green Energy, Africa’s Pathway to Sustainable Development; Harnessing the Continent’s Natural Energy Sources
Nsikan Nkordeh, Maroh Ejiro, Mba Okeoghene, Morayo Awomoyi, Ibinabo Bob-Manuel
Abstract
Renewable energy includes all forms of energy produced from renewable sources in a sustainable manner, including bioenergy, geothermal energy, hydropower, ocean energy, solar energy, and wind energy. Less than one quarter of Africa’s renewable power generation potential is utilized. Africa’s natural endowments are enormous, yet the continent experiences high energy shortage. Amongst the classifications of energy sources, renewable and green energy sources are increasingly gaining popularity due to their sustainable nature and environmental concerns. This paper explores the continent’s natural energy sources and identifies pathways to sustainable development. The paper also narrows the renewable and green energy sources obtainable on the continent and presents their contribution to the development of the continent. The awareness level of Africans towards renewable energy is discussed and the challenges of renewable and green energy sources are highlighted. Finally, the roles to be played by the government and private organizations in the development of renewable and green energy sources in Africa are discussed.