On April 22, the world marked Earth Day, an initiative emphasising the importance of environmental sustainability. This year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet”, highlighted the urgent need to shift towards renewable energy sources, calling for a threefold increase in renewable energy generation by 2030 worldwide. In East Africa, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania, this presents an opportunity for transformative change in energy production and consumption.

Renewable energy development in East Africa

East Africa has emerged as a promising frontier for renewable energy development, driven by its rich natural resources and the urgent need to combat climate change. As the region grapples with the effects of global warming, Kenya and Tanzania are capitalising on their abundant renewable resources to meet energy demands sustainably.

In the past decade, Kenya has made significant strides in solar and wind power development. Projects like the Lake Turkana Wind Power project, one of Africa’s largest wind farms, underscore the country’s ambition to harness wind energy effectively. Similarly, Tanzania is progressing with various solar initiatives, such as the Shinyanga Solar Power Plant, to increase energy access across its vast landscape.

The potential for solar and wind energy

The East African region has high solar irradiation levels, averaging about 2100 kWh/m² annually. Combined with wind speeds averaging around 5.5 m/s, this creates an ideal environment for solar photovoltaic and wind energy generation. Regions within Tanzania and Kenya possess significant potential for these energy sources. However, only 1% of suitable land is utilised for energy project development. 

This underutilisation points to an exciting opportunity for growth, with technically installable capacities estimated at 1.067 gigawatts for solar power and 47.2 gigawatts for wind power.

Furthermore, while Kenya and Ethiopia have already tapped into geothermal energy sources, the region is currently harnessing less than 5% of its geothermal capacity, indicating room for expansion.

Off-grid solutions: Empowering rural communities

One of the most impactful developments in East Africa’s energy sector has been the rise of off-grid solar solutions. Solar home systems and mini-grids have transformed the energy landscape for rural and remote communities, where traditional grid extension is often economically unfeasible. Innovative financing models, such as pay-as-you-go (PAYG) schemes, have made solar energy accessible to households with limited financial means, enabling them to invest in sustainable energy solutions.

Government initiatives and investment opportunities

Kenya and Tanzania are working to create an environment that enables renewable energy development. Policies such as feed-in tariffs, tax incentives, and renewable energy targets play a crucial role in attracting investment and facilitating growth in the sector. However, bureaucratic challenges, inadequate grid infrastructure, and financing constraints remain significant hurdles.

A collaborative approach involving governments, development partners, and the private sector is essential to overcome these obstacles. By aligning efforts, East Africa can unlock its full potential in renewable energy and drive sustainable economic growth.

The economic impact of renewable energy

The transition to clean energy is not just an environmental imperative but also an economic opportunity. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that clean energy could generate approximately 26 million jobs in Africa by 2050. In East Africa, innovative enterprises and unique business models are pioneering renewable energy production and distribution growth.

Despite the region’s wealth of renewable resources, only 4% of greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI) from 2017 to 2022 was directed toward renewable energy projects. In contrast, Africa attracted 17% of such investments for renewable initiatives, highlighting the need for East Africa to enhance its appeal to investors.

Future prospects: Challenges and opportunities

The renewable energy landscape in East Africa is poised for significant growth. Rapid urbanisation, population growth, and increasing energy demands present challenges and opportunities for expanding renewable energy deployment. 

With the right mix of supportive policies, strategic investments, and robust partnerships, East Africa can position itself as a renewable energy powerhouse. Individuals, communities, and governments must embrace the call for action. Participating in environmental initiatives, signing petitions, and advocating for renewable energy policies are vital steps toward creating a sustainable future. The transition to renewable energy is not just about reducing carbon emissions; it is about empowering communities, fostering economic growth, and ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

Let us recognise our collective responsibility to protect our planet through sustainable practices and renewable energy initiatives. The future of East Africa’s energy sector is bright. With concerted efforts, we can harness the power of our natural resources to create a sustainable and prosperous future for all. Together, we can turn the vision of “Our Power, Our Planet” into reality, ensuring that the conversation around renewable energy continues to gain momentum