Afro-India partnership to eradicate energy poverty

In 2015, India pledged a concessional credit line of $10 billion to Africa over five years, with at least 15-20% allocated for solar energy projects. Two years later, the collaboration between Africa and India in the field of solar irrigation is gaining momentum. The potential for partnership to eradicate energy poverty in Africa is being explored, with a focus on renewable energy solutions. Speaking to CNBC Africa from Barcelona, William Brent, representing Power for All, shed light on the opportunities and challenges faced by both regions. The collaboration between India and Africa in the renewable energy sector is becoming increasingly crucial as both regions strive to achieve universal electricity access. The African Development Bank (AFDB) has set a target to achieve universal electricity access by 2025, with 200 million new connections through renewable energy. Meanwhile, India aims to achieve universal electricity access as early as 2019. Both regions are at a crossroads, with the choice between traditional centralized coal-fired generation or decentralized renewable solutions. India's recent cancellation of 14 gigawatts of coal-fired plants in favor of utility-scale solar indicates a shift towards cleaner and more cost-effective options. The partnership between India and Africa holds immense potential for collaboration in the renewable energy sector. The International Solar Alliance (ISA), initiated by India and housed in the country, is facilitating collaboration between Indian and African companies and civil society groups. Several African countries have already joined the ISA, paving the way for increased cooperation. Companies like Husk Power and OMC Power from India are actively involved in deploying solar solutions in African nations. Additionally, African companies like Future Pump are expanding their market reach by partnering with Indian manufacturers. The collaboration between India and Africa extends to innovative business models and technological advancements in solar energy solutions. The partnership aims to address the energy needs of the 600 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa without electricity access, particularly those in remote rural areas. The focus on solar irrigation, off-grid solar solutions, and mini-grids highlights the joint effort to achieve shared goals. The exchange of knowledge, technology, and commercial opportunities between India and Africa marks an exciting phase in the renewable energy sector for both regions. William Brent emphasized the critical role of civil society organizations and the private sector in driving renewable energy initiatives in Africa. Organizations like Banford College in India have been instrumental in training solar entrepreneurs in Africa, enabling the deployment of distributed renewable solutions. Private sector entities such as Schneider Electric are also actively involved in training electricians for solar installations in both India and Africa. The collaboration between civil society, private sector, and government agencies is essential for scaling up renewable energy projects in Africa. Despite the progress in renewable energy deployment, integrating solar power with existing infrastructure, such as hydroelectricity, remains a challenge for many African countries. The concept of 'Utility 2.0' focuses on integrating centralized and distributed energy solutions through integrated planning. This approach aims to bridge the gap between off-grid assets and centralized grid assets for a more efficient and sustainable energy system. As both regions continue to work towards universal electricity access, the integration of renewable energy sources with existing infrastructure will be a key focus area for future development. The Afro-India partnership in renewable energy holds promise for transforming the energy landscape in Africa and fostering sustainable development across the continent.