African Union Unveils Groundbreaking Energy Efficiency Programme and Alliance at COP 29
In a significant development at COP 29, the African Union (AU) introduced the African Energy Efficiency Programme and the African Energy Efficiency Alliance (AEEA), reaffirming its dedication to transforming energy systems across Africa. The announcement, held at the Africa Pavilion and organized by the African Energy Commission (AFREC), highlights energy efficiency as a key pillar of Africa’s sustainable development strategy.
Commitment to Energy Productivity
Her Excellency Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy at the African Union Commission, stressed Africa’s ambitious goals for energy transformation. “With the African Energy Efficiency Strategy and Action Plan, we aim to increase Africa’s energy productivity by 50% by 2050 and 70% by 2063, aligning with the global objective to double energy efficiency by 2030,” she stated.
A Comprehensive Energy Efficiency Roadmap
The African Energy Efficiency Strategy (AfEES) outlines an actionable framework to promote energy efficiency across sectors such as power, agriculture, industry, transport, buildings, and clean cooking. These initiatives align with the Paris Agreement, focusing on emission reductions and climate resilience.
AFREC’s analysis highlighted the transformative potential of energy-efficient policies. For instance, Africa could save up to 175 TWh of energy by 2040 through appliance market transformations targeting lighting, cooling systems, motors, and transformers. This is equivalent to avoiding the construction of more than 80 new 500 MW power plants.
Collaboration through the African Energy Efficiency Alliance (AEEA)
To advance these goals, the AU launched the African Energy Efficiency Alliance (AEEA), a collaborative platform designed to unite governments, businesses, NGOs, development partners, and academic institutions. The Alliance will drive knowledge exchange, advocacy, research, and resource mobilization to expedite Africa’s transition to energy-efficient systems.
“Achieving these targets requires both technical expertise and financial resources,” Dr. Abou-Zeid emphasized. “The AEEA will serve as a hub for collaboration and innovation, supporting energy efficiency initiatives across the continent.”
Global Support for Africa’s Energy Transition
The initiative has attracted widespread international support. Carla Montesi, Director at the European Union Directorate-General for International Partnerships, praised the collaboration between the EU and AFREC, emphasizing the importance of doubling global energy efficiency by 2030.
Denmark’s Under Secretary for Development, Ole Thonke, also applauded the AU’s leadership. “The African Energy Efficiency Alliance is a vital step toward a more resilient and energy-secure Africa. Denmark remains committed to supporting African nations in achieving their energy efficiency targets and driving sustainable growth,” he said.
A Milestone for Sustainable Development
The launch of the African Energy Efficiency Programme and Alliance represents a pivotal moment in Africa’s journey toward a sustainable energy future. By bridging the energy access gap and fostering economic growth, the AU’s bold initiative is poised to make lasting contributions to environmental sustainability and regional development.
