Posters
Come meet the poster presenters to ask them questions and discuss their work
We would like to invite you to come and see the posters at our upcoming conference. The posters will showcase a diverse range of research topics, and will give delegates an opportunity to engage with the authors and learn more about their work. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or simply curious about the latest developments in your field, we believe that the posters will offer something of interest to everyone. So please join us at the conference and take advantage of this opportunity to learn and engage with your peers in industry and the academic community.
On 9 April at 17:15, we’ll also hold the main poster session and distinguish the 7 best posters of this year’s edition with our traditional Poster Awards Ceremony. Join us at the poster area to cheer and meet the laureates, and enjoy some drinks with all poster presenters!
We look forward to seeing you there!
PO036: How to unlock wind and solar energy potential in Africa: Navigating structural challenges to mobilise European investment
Christopher Hope, Principal Consultant, ERM
Abstract
Africa is an area of significant wind energy potential, but to date, utilisation of its wind resources remains limited. Despite being home to just under 20 percent of the global population (with projected further proportional increases), at present Africa receives less than 2 percent of global clean energy spending. Africa has one of the most carbon-intensive power sectors globally, but the renewable energy sectors are not responding accordingly. In the words of the Financial Times, "the pace of progress is slowest precisely where it is needed most". Within this context, accelerating development of the continent's wind sector would bring significant benefits to communities, countries, and the planet. This paper analyses the experiences of wind developers in Africa, framing these insights within the broader context of public and private sector hurdles, to identify the key factors to unlock wind energy potential in Africa. Such obstacles include the structural and financial factors limiting private sector opportunities, uncertainty created from policy regimes, resistance from local communities and environmental groups, and a failure of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to understand the local context of their projects. The paper asserts that despite significant challenges, there are several success factors that enable progress in the region, and that with shifts in approach from both governments and companies, it will be possible to rapidly accelerate development. For governments, financial and policy incentives, grid expansion, and clear and stable regulations have in some cases helped attract investments into the wind energy sector furthering its development. For companies, strengthening operations typically consists of, but is not limited to, conducting thorough due diligence processes, and collaborating with government authorities and communities. The paper concludes with a list of actionable policy-level recommendations for companies and governments to advance the wind sector's development on the continent.
No recording available for this poster.
