How renewable energy is expanding electricity access in Africa

At least 600 million households in Africa lack access to electricity, creating a pressing need for innovative renewable energy solutions to bridge this significant gap. The rise of renewable energy is revolutionizing the energy landscape in Africa, offering affordable and sustainable alternatives to traditional sources. CNBC Africa recently sat down with Peter Benhur Nyeko, Co-Founder of Mandulis Energy, to discuss the latest trends in renewable energy and the transformative work being done to expand electricity access across the continent. Nyeko highlighted the shift towards productive use of renewable energy in rural areas and the development of new energy systems to power industries and communities. Mandulis Energy specializes in providing affordable renewable energy solutions in rural areas, focusing on homes, villages, and rural industries. With over a decade of experience in Uganda, the company is now expanding its operations to other parts of Africa and is based in London, UK. Nyeko emphasized the importance of understanding the specific energy needs of rural areas and highlighted the move towards innovative technologies beyond solar and battery backup, including bioenergy, hydrogen, and mini hydros. One key trend Nyeko identified is the increased focus on the productive use of renewable energy, highlighting the importance of powering digitization and AI initiatives in rural communities. As Africa continues to embrace digital transformation, access to reliable and affordable energy is crucial to drive economic growth and connectivity across the continent. The shift towards green energy solutions is not only environmentally sustainable but also economically viable, creating opportunities for sustainable development. In terms of expanding energy access in a cost-effective manner, Nyeko discussed the importance of connecting more towns and villages to main grids to provide round-the-clock electricity at a lower cost. While large hydropower and solar stations are significant contributors to the energy mix, innovative solutions are required to reach rural communities beyond the grid. Nyeko highlighted the adoption of solar home systems and the growing demand for larger energy solutions that can support commercial and industrial activities. One of the key challenges in rural electrification is the cost of lithium-ion batteries, which remains relatively high. To address this issue, Mandulis Energy is exploring alternative solutions such as utilizing agricultural waste to extract methane and hydrogen as backup sources of energy. By combining solar and bioenergy in hybrid systems, the company aims to deliver high-quality electricity to rural areas at a competitive price, mirroring the standards of urban areas. Nyeko's insights shed light on the transformative potential of renewable energy in revolutionizing electricity access in Africa, paving the way for sustainable development and economic empowerment. As the continent strives towards a cleaner and more inclusive energy future, innovative solutions like those offered by Mandulis Energy play a crucial role in driving progress and improving livelihoods across Africa.