North Africa Energy Storage Valley Project Planning Unit

Why does North Africa need a backup power system?

The industry needs hardware, software and international standards – and on top of all this, there is an increasing requirement for power to come from renewable sources. North Africa is witnessing a rising number of refinery green- and brownfield projects, which will warrant an increase in backup power requirements.

How can interconnections reduce the cost of electricity generation in North Africa?

All of these can help the region decrease the cost of electricity generation by increasing the share of renewables in the electricity mix. Interconnections would also bring flexibility that will complement the more diverse power systems in North Africa with a higher share of renewable energy.

How can Development Finance improve access to energy in North Africa?

The implementation of new power infrastructure is expected to be operational in 2030. Development finance institutions have a critical role to play in improving access to energy in North Africa, especially by enabling more electrification of household energy and finance for rooftop energy solutions.

How can North African countries achieve near-universal access to electricity and clean cooking?

Energy access: North African countries have already achieved near-universal access to electricity and clean cooking (SDG 7.1) thanks to effective public policies promoting major grid extensions, dedicated rural electrification programmes, and the expansion of gas networks and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) distribution.

How is the energy crisis affecting North Africa?

The crisis is affecting energy systems around the world, and presents North African countries with an imperative to re‑evaluate energy strategies and accelerate clean energy transitions in planning their economic recovery.

Should North Africa export clean electricity to Europe?

North Africa has enormous renewable energy potential, particularly in solar and wind power, whose surplus could be easily exported to Europe. Clean electricity from North Africa would be an important medium-term option to help diversify Europe’s energy mix and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels in the long term.