In a transformative initiative launched in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, the China-Africa Renewable Energy Partnership aims to revolutionize energy access across the African continent.
This partnership promises to enhance energy security and stimulate economic development through renewable energy solutions.
”Energy is the golden threat, you can not do anything without energy, you cannot grow an economy without energy’, we have to grow this economy to address poverty and climate,” said World Resources Institute (WRI) Regional Director Wanjira Mathai. “This is by ensuring how we have technology transfer, we are able to leverage the benefits, the wisdom the knowledge, and resources we have as Kenya and the technology know-how and journey that China has gone through and together we can share lessons”.
According to Chinese Renewable Energy Industries Association, Deputy Secretary-General, Wang Weiquan, this partnership will create jobs, especially in the burgeoning green technology sector.
”As China, we have the responsibility to help the countries to help in renewable projects. In terms of financing, we need more long-term financing mechanisms”
Wang added that, under the agreement, China and Kenya will also undertake joint assessments to better understand the needs of Kenya’s renewable energy market.
The partnership will also support local businesses through affordable energy solutions will stimulate economic activity and entrepreneurship.
“Some of the key objectives we are looking at include How will we be able to influence China to increase investment in decentralized renewable projects for example mini-grids and solar systems that are also able to benefit communities”, Benson Ireri, WRI Africa lead-Energy access said.
The launch brought together Chinese technology and investment partners with local energy expertise officials.
The event was held in the backdrop of the China-Africa Digital Financial Inclusion Summit that was among other things expected to strengthen cross-border commercial and financial exchanges and promote the adoption of renewable energy technologies in Africa.
Data from the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Agency indicates that Kenya’s installed electricity capacity stands at 3,112 megawatts (MW) out of which solar contributes 210 MW.
