Africa’s renewable energy future: pathways to 100% renewables

With the African Union set to play a key role in global climate discussions at the upcoming G20 and COP30 summits, this report arrives at a critical time. It highlights Africa’s vast untapped potential for solar and wind power – enough to exceed its projected electricity needs in 2050 by a factor of 180. Just 3% of this renewable potential could meet all future electricity demand across the continent.

The research is part of the One Earth Climate Model (OECM), which develops science-based scenarios that align with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C climate target. The Africa-specific scenario models energy demand across all major sectors – industry, transport, buildings – and maps out the required investment, infrastructure, and policy frameworks needed to achieve a fully renewable system.

Crucially, the report outlines what a fair global carbon budget would look like. While G20 nations are responsible for over 70% of historical emissions, African countries (excluding South Africa) account for just 1.2%. With energy demand expected to grow significantly, the continent now faces a vital opportunity: to leapfrog fossil fuels and build an energy-secure, climate-resilient, and economically prosperous future powered by renewables.

The report provides in-depth modelling, including national energy profiles, GIS-based renewable resource mapping, and projections of grid capacity and investment needs. It is designed to support African policymakers and international stakeholders as they plan the continent’s energy transition.

Research outputs

download Africa: Energy Development Plan to Decarbonise the Continent (2025) (PDF, 6.1MB)

link Solar Potential Area in Africa (online map)

link Onshore wind Potential Area in Africa (online map)

Media

link G20 countries could produce enough renewable energy for the whole world – what needs to happen – The Conversation, June 2025