Adopting latecomers' strategies for the development of renewable energy technology in Africa

Abstract

The overall objective of this paper is to develop strategies on how renewable energy technology could be used to abate climate change impacts in Africa. While assessing the potential impacts of climate change in Africa, the paper asserts that renewable energy is capable of overcoming the challenges of energy access in Africa as a result of the abundance of land, water and feedstocks. It reiterates the fact that the fossil-fuel-dependent industrialisation pathway is not sustainable. The paper develops a model for African countries based on the concept of a latecomer strategy, which could be used to catch up with advanced countries in the manufacturing and diffusion of clean energy technologies. The paper concludes that renewable energy technology is not just another option for the continent but the only option. More importantly, the adoption of the strategy will enable African countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a cleaner atmosphere in their cities.