Fossil fuels to supply 61% of Africa's electricity by 2030 despite renewable growth, study of 3,139 power plants finds

A new study tracking 3,139 power plants across Africa finds that fossil fuels will still supply 61% of the continent's electricity by 2030, even as renewable generation rises from 19% to 34%. The research maps operating, under-construction, and planned plants through 2030, including their water use and carbon emissions. Coal and gas expansion drives a 19% increase in CO2 emissions, while hydropower expansion increases water consumption by 73%. The study highlights that Africa has barely tapped its solar and wind potential. Solar and wind use far less water and emit far less carbon than fossil fuels or hydropower. The authors urge policymakers to integrate energy and water planning, secure financing for renewable projects, and combine utility-scale renewables with battery storage, grid upgrades, and off-grid solutions like solar home systems. The database is publicly available and is the most detailed open-access inventory of African power plants to date. It shows that countries like Morocco, South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya are investing heavily in wind and solar, while Nigeria, Algeria, and Tanzania are building large gas-fired plants. The findings suggest Africa will slightly miss its Paris Agreement commitments if current plans proceed.