Highly renewable energy systems in Africa: Rationale, research, and recommendations

This review paper assesses the status and findings of 100% renewable energy (RE) system analyses for Africa published in scientific journals. The RE topic is rarely researched with regard to Africa; only 54 peer-reviewed articles exist entire continent, which about 7% global total (750 articles) while reflecting almost a quarter world population by 2050. As comparison, more 5.9 million inhabitants Denmark than 1.34 billion Africa. literature documents significant gaps Africa's fully research. shows that studies on transitions have mainly focused Global North. Comparative transition supportive policies South, especially Africa, are rare. Studies can be characterized low resolution sector coverage, time, space, applied technology diversity. geographical scope research limited; Morocco, Nigeria, La Réunion Island most countries; however, politically part Europe. region suffering from lowest electricity access. However, no single model coherently on-grid off-grid solutions comprehensive transition. Most analyzed an overnight approach, may lack sufficient insights could cater decision-making transitioning system. Africa’s systems spatial diversification, as existing based single-node approach. these relatively new focus power sector, less attention given other sectors. paper, first examine state art analyses, In total, since 2000 been identified analyzed. Despite being projected account 2050, least world. Notably, Morocco Nigeria countries, but France’s overseas department receives same attention, reinforces point interest or community African continent. further including continent rates access, there Transitioning all purposes at core climate change.1[IPCC] - International Panel Climate ChangeMitigation change. 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