The African continent has enormous potential for renewable energy sources, especially solar. However, the energy transition requires significant investments, infrastructure, and supportive policies, making the process complex and multifaceted due to challenges related to poverty and the need to balance economic development with environmental sustainability.
In this regard, aiming to remove some barriers, the Mozambican Association of Renewable Energies (AMER) advocated for greater cooperation between African associations linked to the energy sector, adding that these associations serve as strategic bridges between the public and private sectors to stimulate the renewable energy ecosystem and promote inclusive energy access solutions in African countries, including Mozambique.
Speaking in Malawi during the National Energy Conference held from July 30 to August 1, AMER’s Executive Director, Helena Macune, stated that ensuring universal access to energy is a priority for inclusive development. Therefore, it is crucial to strengthen partnerships and coordinated actions “so that energy reaches all communities, leaving no one behind.”
Speaking specifically on the panel about the “Role of National Energy Associations in Promoting Energy Access and Socioeconomic Development,” the executive reinforced AMER’s commitment to a just energy transition, emphasizing that the organization she leads is committed to working to eliminate gender inequalities in energy access and the labor market.
Quoted in a publication reviewed by Diário Económico, Helena Macune reiterated the call for investment in sustainable and scalable energy solutions in Mozambique, advocating for greater coordination between national and international actors to accelerate sector progress and generate economic and social impact in communities. In April, the Mozambican Association of Renewable Energies estimated that the country will need 80 billion dollars (more than 5 trillion meticais) by 2050 to finance its renewable energy transition strategy. At that time, the association’s president, Ricardo Pereira, stressed that continuous financial effort each year will be necessary to reach this goal, with the funds mainly destined for infrastructure construction projects and expansion of the country’s energy distribution network.
The official added that Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM) has already mobilized at least 323 million dollars (20.4 billion meticais) for the expansion of electrical infrastructure in various regions of the country. “This investment aims to improve energy distribution capacity, but much more will be needed to achieve the energy transition targets,” he emphasized.
AMER also reported that for off-grid energy, about 2.7 billion dollars (170.6 billion meticais) are available for the energy transition. This funding comes from various sources, including technical assistance and direct financing. Although the financial challenge is significant, the renewable energy sector in Mozambique shows good growth prospects. “We have sufficient potential and resources in solar, wind, and hydropower to meet not only our internal needs but also those of some of our neighboring countries,” stated AMER’s president, highlighting Mozambique’s great potential for developing these energy sources.
Source: Diário Económico
