The UK Government has declared investments worth over £50m into innovative, clean technology as the UK works with African countries to establish sustainable energy sources.
The government announced the winners of the investment packages for the continent’s clean energy infrastructure at the African Investment Summit in London on 21 January 2020, which will head towards projects that aim to provide thousands with clean energy.
The authorized projects include solar farms in Kenya, geothermal power stations in Ethiopia and clean energy storage in sub-Saharan Africa. The countries will obtain funding and support as UK scientists and financial experts will work with their African counterparts to realise the continent’s significant renewable energy potential. The UK will also assist the countries with attracting investment for innovative renewable projects, such as wind and solar farms.
The government underlined that close collaboration with African countries will be key as the UK prepares to host the UN climate talks (COP26) later this year.
Business and energy secretary Andrea Leadsom said “Our world-leading scientists and financial experts will work hand in hand with African nations to support their quest for energy security, powering new industries and jobs all over the the continent with a diverse mix of energy sources while promoting economic growth.”
Speaking at the summit, Leadsom emphasised the opportunity for many African countries to substitute coal power with cleaner forms of energy, but concerned that more needed to be done to unlock investment.
With African energy demand set to increase by 60% by 2040, according to IEA report, UK experts will help deliver green solutions for the continent’s growing energy needs.
