Abstract

In spite of the abundancy of primary energy resources, the African continent is still plagued by low levels of energy consumption and limited access to final energy. The article provides an overview of the drivers and implications of energy poverty in Africa. An in depth focus on countries' experience also shows how the same problem can be tackled in very different ways. The analysis concludes that achieving universal energy access by 2030 is still possible under political willingness, public and private investments in productive and transmission infrastructures, and community engagement.