More than energy generation: Wind power to transform Africa’s economy

Picture: Reuters
JOHANNESBURG  – 
Besides generating much-needed clean and affordable electricity, wind energy has the power to unlock economic growth in Africa, give a new impulse to the continent’s under-performing manufacturing sector. 
This and developing an energy storage industry can develop and transform economies and create millions of direct and indirect jobs. 
Despite progress, energy security remains a challenge in the continent. According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), over 640 million people in the region still don’t have access to clean, affordable, and reliable energy. This corresponds to an average electrification rate of 43%. All of this is a key deterrent to sustained economic growth, a healthy investment climate, job creation and the provision of public services. 

Source: iol.co.za