Renewable Energy: A Catalyst for Sustainable Development in the Sahel Region
By Reshmi Theckethil, Lead Portfolio, Climate Action, Disaster Risk Reduction, Energy, and Resilience | Sahel Resilience Project Manager, UNDP Sub-Regional Hub for West and Central Africa
The Sahel region holds immense potential for clean, affordable energy, with abundant solar, wind, and hydro resources waiting to be harnessed. Despite having one of the highest solar energy production potentials globally, the region still heavily relies on fossil fuels like oil and gas for over 55% of its energy production, leaving renewable sources largely untapped. This imbalance not only hinders economic growth but also exacerbates energy poverty, with nearly half of the population lacking access to electricity.
In recent years, the demand for energy in the Sahel has been steadily increasing, especially in urban areas, while rural communities continue to face connectivity disparities and high electricity costs. The challenge lies in bridging this gap and ensuring that clean, renewable energy reaches every household, school, and hospital in the region.
Renewable energy is not just a technical solution but a driver of sustainable human development in the Sahel. By localizing green energy solutions and transitioning from fossil fuels to renewables, the region can address energy poverty, promote resilience, and achieve inclusive growth. Policies outlined in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) offer opportunities for social and economic transformation while safeguarding the environment.
For women and youth in the Sahel, access to renewable energy can be transformative. It not only reduces reliance on manual labor but also creates opportunities for innovation and increased productivity. Solar-powered solutions like agricultural hubs and irrigation systems have the potential to boost incomes, combat food insecurity, and create sustainable livelihoods.
Recognizing the region’s potential, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is spearheading initiatives like the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel (UNISS) to provide clean, affordable energy to over 150 million people by 2025. With support from international partners and local actors, renewable energy projects have already benefited millions of people in areas like the Lake Chad Basin and Liptako-Gourma.
To strengthen regional collaboration and expedite the energy transition, Sahelian countries must adopt targeted green industrial policies, leverage technology transfers, and ensure access to financing. By capitalizing on opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), these nations can promote cross-border energy interconnectivity and regional power pools.
Ultimately, by fostering innovation, strategic investments, and public-focused initiatives, the Sahel region can close the energy gap and pave the way for sustainable, inclusive development. Renewable energy offers a transformative path to economic revitalization and climate resilience, bringing affordable and accessible power to even the most remote communities. With a concerted effort and a commitment to sustainability, the Sahel can lead the way in Africa’s green energy revolution.
