In view of the critical role geothermal is set to play in meeting Africa’s rapidly growing energy demand, the continent’s geothermal sector will attract, at least, $35 billion in investments by 2050.
Although Africa currently possesses only around 1 gigawatt (GW) of geothermal capacity in 2023, which is half of Europe’s total, its overall installed capacity is expected to more than double by 2030, as gathered by the Guardian. Considering the already anounced projects, and the once yet to be disclosed, the geothermal capacity in Africa could triple by 2030.
The progress if achieved, will lift Africa from the sixth-largest geothermal power generator in 2023 to the third largest by 2030.
The investments according to Rystad Energy’s latest projection will see Africa’s installed geothermal capacity surpass Europe by the end of the decade. “By 2050, we expect geothermal power generation capacity in Africa to expand to 13 GW, more than double the expected 5.5 GW of installed capacity in Europe.”
“Many African countries with geothermal potential rely heavily on hydropower for their electricity supply. The geothermal industry in Africa is picking up steam and could help meet soaring demand across the continent in the decades to come,” the projection stated.
To achieve the geothermal capacity of 13 GW in Africa by 2050, Rystad Energy’s primary scenario heavily depends on the advancement of geothermal resources in Kenya and Ethiopia.
Kenya has already demonstrated its commitment to incorporating geothermal energy into its power mix. With abundant geothermal resources, strong local expertise and increasing interest from international players, it is expected that Kenya will exceed 8 GW of geothermal capacity by 2050,” it stated.
Executive Director of PowerUp Nigeria, Adetayo Adegbemle suggested that Nigeria should send its delegations to these nations for studying, to enhance the country’s geothermal capacity.
He mentioned that the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) ought to have been engaged in such activities, but lately, they have been inactive. Therefore, he recommended that the Federal Government should reconstitute the Commission. The guardian gathered.
