Accelerating sustainable electrification: the key to economic and social development on the African continent

In recent decades, Africa has made significant progress in reducing poverty, narrowing inequalities and expanding access to vital services, including electricity. However, progress is still short of what is needed to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030: Africa still faces numerous challenges. With a population expected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, the continent will see an increase in demand for food, clean water, electricity, access to services and employment opportunities. To achieve this goal, Africa will have to address key energy challenges. Electrification, together with digitalization and the development of strategic professional skills, will therefore play a central role in driving the continent’s energy demand.

Access to reliable, safe and affordable electricity is a prerequisite for the success of Africa’s socio-economic transformation. With its vast natural resources and renewable energy endowments, the continent has the potential to become a major driver of a new global green industry. Along with the large-scale development of renewable energy sources, the modernization of electricity grids will form the backbone of future electricity systems and will be necessary for the integration of energy markets at regional and continental levels. Technological innovation in energy storage systems, green hydrogen and widespread digitalization will also play a significant role in the energy transition.

The success of Africa’s sustainable electrification requires a systemic approach that encompasses all components of electricity systems and value chains.
Africa is therefore at a crucial crossroads in its quest for sustainable socio-economic development, with the urgency of accelerating economic growth, promoting job creation and ensuring universal access to energy.
Electricity is therefore a fundamental element of modern societies, indispensable in diverse applications ranging from lighting to transportation, from industrial processes to digital technologies.
The convergence of interests of governments and the private sector in supporting Africa-led growth and development will be a focal point discussed at the forum, along with a focus on best available technologies to accelerate the sustainable electrification of the African continent.

Programme

Opening Remarks
Roberto Vigotti, RES4Africa Secretary General
Robert Lisinge, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) - Chief of Section, PSDFD- Energy Infrastructure & Services

Panel 1 – Scaling Up investments for the sustainable electrification in Africa

Moderator
Andrea Bombardi, RINA - Vice President Global Market Development

Speakers
Carla Montesi, Director European Commission's Directorate - General for International Partnerships
Paolo Ghezzo, Senior Renewable Energy Specialist European investment Bank
Karim Guernoti, Chief of External Relations, CDER (Rеnеwab?е Enеrgy Deve?opment Center A?geria)
Gabriele Cassetti, Senior Researcher Energy Systems ECCO 
Ilhan Ozturk, CCO Export - Prysmian South Europe Region & VP - Prysmian New Markets
Mattia Epifani, Senior Project Manager, Environment & Infrastructure DT Global-Europe   

Panel 2 – Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) a key enabler for RE in Africa

Moderator
Antonio Nodari, AFRY Consulting - Vice President Head of Region Central and South Europe and Managing Director

Speakers
Franck Girard, Head of Global Energy Storage NIDEC ASI
Ali Kanzari, Chief Executive Officer Solar Energy Systems 
​Alessandra Grisolia, Global Account Manager ABB
Mouhcine Benmeziane, Head of the Cooperation, Communication and Technology Intelligence Department IRESEN 
Rethabile Melamu, Chief Executive Officer SAPVIA, The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association
Simone Pasquini, Area Manager Africa CESI
​Martina Serao, RES4Africa, International Relations Specialist