Mozambique sets the benchmark with an extraordinary 100% green energy capacity, primarily driven by hydropower. The country’s massive Cahora Bassa dam generates 2,075 MW of electricity, representing the region’s largest hydroelectric power plant. Although currently only 34% of the population has reliable electricity, the country is poised for significant growth, with various energy projects underway.
Ethiopia is another renewable energy powerhouse, with the potential to generate an impressive 60,000 MW from renewable sources. A staggering 90% of its power comes from hydroelectric sources, and the country has committed to expanding its installed generation capacity. What’s truly remarkable is Ethiopia’s tiny carbon footprint, contributing just 0.08 tons of CO2 emissions per capita!
Zambia is also a green energy leader, generating 85% of its electricity through hydropower. The country holds six major hydro stations totaling 2,800 MW of installed capacity, Zambia derives 99% of its energy from renewable sources. Furthermore, its environmental impact is minimal, emitting just 0.07 tons of CO2 per capita, making it the third greenest country globally.
Next on our list, Kenya, who are industry leaders in geothermal power. In 2016, the country generated 26% of Africa’s entire renewable energy and boasts the highest number of solar power systems per capita. By 2019, Kenya had achieved over 90% renewable energy in its mix, with an impressive variety of sources including hydro, geothermal, and solar.
Finally, Ghana has an impressive 5,300 MW installed generation capacity, with a power supply mix of 38% hydroelectricity, 61% thermal, and 1% solar. Its 2019 Renewable Energy Master Plan targets increasing renewable energy generation from 42.5 MW to 1,363.63 MW by 2030! The plan also aims to electrify over 1,000 off-grid communities and promote regional renewable energy participation, making sure that developing local content is at the forefront of its agenda. Historically, Ghana is among the world’s greenest countries, generating 68.26% of its energy from renewables and emitting just 0.4 tons of CO2 per capita.
These countries showcase more than just technical achievements, they represent a vision of sustainable development. By leveraging their natural resources like rivers, sunlight, and wind, African nations are not just generating electricity; they’re creating a blueprint for green energy that the rest of the world can learn from.
The story of African renewable energy is one of hope, innovation, and immense potential. This is a story that AGES strongly supports and is excited to see develop in the future!
