As the world looks toward sustainable development in an era of rapid technological transformation, Africa, particularly South Africa, is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the global green energy and technology landscape. The 2025 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos-Klosters, scheduled from January 20 to 24, 2025, under the theme “Collaboration in the Intelligent Age,” provides an opportune moment to explore how Africa can lead in green and clean energy advancements while leveraging its growing technological potential.
Green Energy as a Catalyst for Development
Africa’s abundant natural resources position the continent as a global powerhouse for renewable energy. South Africa, with its significant strides in solar and wind energy, is a testament to the continent’s potential. In 2024, South Africa’s solar PV capacity reached 8.97 GW, marking an 11.9% increase from the previous year. These numbers reflect more than a commitment to renewable energy; they signify a movement towards energy security in a region long plagued by unreliable power supply and load shedding.
Beyond South Africa, countries like Kenya and Ethiopia are investing heavily in geothermal and wind energy, respectively, showcasing Africa’s diverse renewable energy portfolio. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Africa could meet nearly a quarter of its energy needs through clean sources by 2030, provided investments continue to flow into infrastructure and innovation. The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) in South Africa has already demonstrated success by attracting billions in investment and creating thousands of jobs.
Access to reliable and affordable green energy is not just an environmental imperative but also a socioeconomic one. Transitioning to clean energy in South Africa could address energy insecurity, reduce reliance on coal, and create new employment opportunities in the renewable energy sector. Across the continent, green energy could provide electricity to over 600 million people currently without access, driving industrialisation, improving education, and enhancing healthcare delivery.
The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) provides a framework to drive regional energy cooperation, enabling countries to share resources and expertise. With Africa’s young and tech-savvy population, the continent is uniquely positioned to leverage homegrown talent to address these challenges head-on.
Technology as a Game-Changer
Africa’s burgeoning technological advancements are set to play a key role in the continent’s energy transition and broader development. The rise of digital solutions such as smart grids, energy storage systems, and IoT-enabled energy management tools underscores the potential of technology to optimize energy efficiency and distribution. South Africa’s growing tech ecosystem, particularly in cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, is fostering innovation in energy and beyond.
Notably, artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain are emerging as transformative technologies in the energy sector. AI-powered predictive analytics can enhance grid stability and efficiency, while blockchain technology can enable decentralized energy trading systems, empowering local communities to generate and trade renewable energy seamlessly.
Africa’s youthful population—projected to reach 830 million by 2050—represents a dynamic workforce that can lead the charge in adopting and implementing green technologies. This demographic dividend, coupled with strategic investments in education and skills development, could position Africa as a global leader in the green and intelligent age.
Insights from Research
Research consistently highlights the transformative potential of clean energy and technology in Africa. A report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) emphasizes that Africa could meet nearly a quarter of its energy needs through renewables by 2040, significantly reducing carbon emissions. Similarly, a study by the African Development Bank (AfDB) underscores the critical role of energy in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that investments in clean energy could lift millions out of poverty.
In South Africa, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has been at the forefront of researching renewable energy integration, demonstrating how wind and solar could meet up to 80% of the country’s energy demand by 2050. These insights provide a roadmap for policymakers and investors to accelerate the transition to clean energy.
A Call for Collaborative Action
As world leaders gather at the WEF Annual Meeting, it is imperative to recognize Africa’s potential as a cornerstone of global sustainability efforts. Collaborative partnerships between governments, private sector players, and international organizations are essential to scale green energy initiatives and technological innovation. South Africa, as a leading economy on the continent, has a unique role in championing this agenda.
The theme “Collaboration in the Intelligent Age” resonates deeply with Africa’s aspirations. By embracing green energy and harnessing technological advancements, the continent can not only achieve its developmental goals but also contribute meaningfully to a sustainable and resilient global economy.
Private Sector Leadership: Granville Energy’s Role
Companies like Granville Energy exemplify this collaborative ethos. By focusing on cleaner, smarter, and more resilient energy solutions, Granville Energy is helping shape a sustainable energy landscape that benefits both people and the planet. At Granville Energy, we envision a future where energy is not just cleaner but also a catalyst for economic and social development. Through collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, we believe Africa can illuminate the path to a brighter and more resilient future for all.
Investment Opportunities
The energy transition in Africa offers a unique opportunity for international investors to engage in impactful projects that align with global sustainability goals. It’s a chance to bridge the gap between technology-rich regions and resource-rich Africa, fostering mutual growth and resilience.
The 2025 WEF Annual Meeting’s exploration of “relaunching growth” and “strengthening resilience” will likely highlight Africa’s contributions to these global goals. For South Africa, this is a moment to showcase its leadership in clean energy and technology, demonstrating how the continent can be a beacon of hope and progress in a rapidly transforming world.