23 September 2014 – A new initiative announced today at the United Nations Climate Summit in New York is expected to reduce dependency on fossil fuels in eastern and southern Africa at a time when regional demand for electricity is estimated to at least double over the next quarter century.
A second initiative, also coordinated by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), aims to deliver a cleaner energy mix for up to 4.7 million people on the frontlines of climate change in so-called small island developing States.
“These initiatives will help reduce emissions and contribute to improved health, wealth and opportunity, and a life of dignity for all,” said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who is hosting as Climate Summit today in New York to mobilize resources and generate actions that will reduce emissions and build resilience to climate change.
At the Summit, 19 ministers from Africa endorsed the Africa Clean Energy Corridor (ACEC). If developed as planned, the initiative will advance the development of renewable energy projects used by the Eastern Africa Power Pool and Southern African Power Pool from its current 12 per cent to at least 40 per cent by 2030.
Four-fifths of all electricity in eastern and southern Africa is from gas, oil or coal. The switch away from carbon-bearing fossil fuels would save 2,500 metric tonnes of cumulative carbon dioxide emissions.
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