In early September, over 50 African heads of state gathered in Beijing for the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Held from September 4th to 6th, this event marked another milestone in the ongoing collaboration between China and African nations. As usual, the triennial meeting concluded with an action plan and a declaration, laying the groundwork for the next phase of the China-Africa partnership. While the forum covered a wide range of issues, including infrastructure, trade, health, and security, the focus on clean and renewable energy emerged as a key theme.
This renewed emphasis on climate change and sustainable energy is part of a growing trend in the China-Africa relationship. It builds on the conversations that began during the 2021 FOCAC in Dakar, where clean energy was highlighted as an area of vital importance for Africa’s future.
For Africa, clean energy is not just about tackling climate change—it’s a chance to drive economic development, improve energy access, and create sustainable jobs. African nations have long struggled with energy shortages, and the transition to renewable energy sources offers a path forward that is both environmentally and economically beneficial.
Africa’s Clean Energy Challenges
Africa, despite its vast natural resources, faces major challenges when it comes to energy. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), nearly 600 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to electricity. This stark reality highlights the need for more robust solutions to energy poverty. In many African countries, reliance on fossil fuels has led to environmental degradation, health issues, and economic inefficiency.
At the same time, Africa has some of the most abundant renewable energy resources on the planet—solar, wind, and hydropower. However, harnessing these resources effectively has proven to be difficult, often due to a lack of investment, infrastructure, and technology.
This is where the China-Africa partnership has become increasingly important. Over the years, China has emerged as a major player in Africa’s renewable energy sector, providing funding, technology, and expertise. Through the FOCAC platform, China has committed to supporting African countries in their transition to cleaner energy sources, offering both financial and technical assistance.
China’s Role in Africa’s Clean Energy Future
China’s involvement in Africa’s clean energy sector is already substantial. The country has been investing heavily in renewable energy projects across the continent, particularly in solar and hydropower. These investments are not just about energy generation—they are about building the infrastructure needed to support long-term growth in the clean energy sector.
In recent years, China has helped African countries develop solar farms, wind energy projects, and hydropower plants. For example, China has been a key player in the development of the Benban Solar Park in Egypt, one of Africa’s largest solar energy projects, which has the capacity to generate up to 1.8 gigawatts of electricity. The China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) and other Chinese firms have also been involved in major hydropower projects in countries like Ethiopia and Zambia.
Chinese investments in renewable energy are seen as essential to achieving Africa’s energy goals. According to Dr. Yao Li, a professor of environmental science at Peking University, “China’s support in renewable energy is pivotal for Africa, particularly because it helps address the dual challenge of providing energy access and combating climate change.”
Additionally, China’s involvement extends beyond just investments in energy projects. The country has been instrumental in the transfer of technology and expertise, helping to build local capacity in African nations. For example, China has provided training for African technicians and engineers, enabling them to operate and maintain renewable energy infrastructure.
FOCAC 2023: Renewed Commitments to Clean Energy
At the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, the action plan released by both parties emphasized the importance of renewable energy in Africa’s sustainable development. Among the key pledges made were commitments to increase cooperation in the areas of clean energy investment, technological innovation, and capacity building.
One of the major initiatives is the China-Africa Renewable Energy Cooperation Program, which aims to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy projects across the continent. This program will focus on solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal energy, with a specific emphasis on providing affordable and reliable electricity to underserved areas.
In the action plan, China reaffirmed its support for African countries in their efforts to tackle climate change and reduce carbon emissions. This includes scaling up the use of renewable energy to meet the continent’s growing energy demands while also reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
The plan also highlights the importance of financing for clean energy projects. China pledged to continue its support for African countries through the provision of loans, grants, and technical assistance. This will help ensure that African nations have the resources they need to develop and implement their renewable energy strategies.
Expert Opinions on the China-Africa Clean Energy Partnership
Experts widely agree that the collaboration between China and Africa on clean energy has the potential to significantly transform the continent’s energy landscape. According to Dr. Lilian Ochieng, a Kenyan energy consultant, “China’s involvement in Africa’s renewable energy sector is a game-changer. Not only does it provide the funding needed to build large-scale projects, but it also brings in the necessary expertise to ensure these projects are sustainable in the long term.”
However, Dr. Ochieng also points out that the partnership must be carefully managed to ensure that African countries benefit fully. “While Chinese investment is crucial, it is also important that African nations take a leadership role in these projects. They should focus on building local industries and creating jobs that will benefit their citizens.”
One key area where African countries can benefit is in the development of local industries related to clean energy. By fostering domestic manufacturing and supply chains for solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries, African nations can reduce their reliance on imports and create local jobs. This will not only strengthen their economies but also contribute to the growth of the global green economy.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Clean Energy in Africa
The China-Africa clean energy partnership holds great promise for the future. With the backing of China’s financial and technological support, African countries are well-positioned to leapfrog traditional fossil fuel-based energy systems and move directly to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.
As both sides look ahead to the next FOCAC in 2026, there is hope that further progress can be made in addressing Africa’s energy challenges. Experts like Dr. Yao Li emphasize the need for continued collaboration and innovation. “Africa is at a crossroads. With the right investments in clean energy, it can become a global leader in renewable energy. But this will require ongoing support from China and other international partners.”
The growing emphasis on clean energy at the FOCAC shows that both China and Africa recognize the importance of sustainable development. By working together, they can help Africa overcome its energy challenges, create economic opportunities, and contribute to the global fight against climate change. The next few years will be critical in shaping the future of Africa’s energy landscape, and the China-Africa partnership will undoubtedly play a central role in this transformation.
