Ouagadougou: Physicist and research director Dr. Omar Sanogo recently discussed the primary challenges and potential benefits of advancing renewable energy in Africa, highlighting the continent’s goal of achieving energy sovereignty by 2050.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Dr. Sanogo identified several barriers to the growth of renewable energies, including economic, technical, and regulatory constraints that impede progress. High initial costs present a significant hurdle for households and small businesses, while limited access to financing further complicates expansion efforts.
Dr. Sanogo emphasized the intermittency issues associated with solar energy, necessitating effective storage solutions to stabilize production. Additionally, he pointed out that existing electrical grids struggle to manage the variations in energy production, which poses another challenge for integrating renewable sources into the energy mix.
On the employment and economic front, Dr. Sanogo noted the job creation potential of the renewable energy sector, as underscored by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The installation and maintenance of renewable energy systems can generate numerous employment opportunities. Moreover, energy access directly contributes to economic development, with even basic lighting facilitating various productive activities. Dr. Sanogo stressed the importance of considering rural electrification as a means to support job-creating ventures such as milling or welding.
Dr. Sanogo also highlighted the critical role of scientific research and universities in advancing renewable energy technologies. Research centers are vital in adapting imported technologies to local climatic conditions, addressing challenges such as heat and dust. He urged African research institutions to generate local data for better mini-grid design and explore new energy sources like green hydrogen derived from biomass or waste energy. Strengthening research efforts and securing funding are crucial for converting scientific findings into practical industrial applications.
In conclusion, Dr. Sanogo mentioned Burkina Faso’s ambitious target of achieving around 50% renewable energy in its energy mix by 2026. Although this goal may not be fully realized, it serves as an important benchmark. Continued efforts to make renewable energies the dominant source and bolster research are essential for achieving energy sovereignty in Africa.