South Africa’s Solar Power Progress

Africa now reportedly installed solar solutions in 14 African countries. Unfortunately, these resources have not been evenly distributed. Only 2 in 5 people have access to a reliable supply of energy throughout the day. Overall, 625 million people are without power in sub-Saharan Africa alone — that’s 68 percent of the population, according to the International Energy Agency.

THE GOOD NEWS

Major investments are underway. The World Bank’s Africa Energy project portfolio currently carries 48 projects totaling US$3 billion. Ugandan energy company Umeme is reportedly dedicating $80 million dollars to upgrading its network. And Kenya could house the largest wind farm in Africa if the 40,000-acre Lake Turkana Wind Power Project is completed.

It’s not just institutions that are providing relief, but even wealthy individuals: Hip hop artist Akon announced plans to help provide electricity to some 600 million Africans without power in 2015.

And finally, the world’s largest concentrated solar power plant was switched on in Morocco in February 2016, harnessing the power of the African sun.

 

For more information on the solar power progress of Africa please visit www.cnn.com