Over half of Africa’s energy comes from bioenergy, such as firewood and charcoal. Unlike the rest of the world, where agricultural yields are high, Africa’s growing population is fed by expanding agricultural land at the expense of forests, biodiversity, and other natural resources, posing a challenge for all humanity.
Bioenergy, derived from biological sources like firewood and charcoal, is a critical energy source across Africa, constituting nearly half of the continent’s primary energy supply. The reliance on bioenergy is particularly pronounced in Sub-Saharan Africa, where it accounts for over 80% of the total energy supply for heating, cooking, and processing agricultural produce, excluding South Africa. This dependence on traditional biomass has not shown signs of diminishing and is not predicted to do so in the foreseeable future. The vast majority of urban households still depend on wood energy, more than any other source, for their daily needs.
However, this reliance on bioenergy has significant implications for the environment and society. The demand for wood, particularly for charcoal production for urban markets, can outstrip supply, leading to environmental degradation. Cooking on open fires is not only highly inefficient but also poses severe health risks. It is estimated that thousands of Africans die prematurely every day from household smoke pollution.
As Africa’s population grows and the demand for modern energy increases, challenges arise in maintaining affordability and sustainability. With the world’s lowest levels of per capita use of modern energy, Africa faces the urgent priority of expanding its energy services without further exacerbating financial strains and environmental impacts. Investments in energy efficiency, such as the use of improved cookstoves and transitioning to cleaner fuels like liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), could help mitigate these challenges. However, recent price spikes in LPG have made it unaffordable for many, pushing them back to traditional biomass use.
The potential for sustainable development through bioenergy in Africa is significant. Initiatives are being implemented to increase access to clean and sustainable energy sources that enhance rural development and reduce the burden on women, who traditionally provide for the energy needs of their households. Projects range from increasing sustainable access to traditional energy sources like wood and charcoal to using agricultural residues, municipal waste, and non-food crops to avoid competition with food crops.
Looking forward, the adoption of improved biomass cookstoves, electric cooking, and biodigesters, along with exploring the technological potential of energy crops such as sugarcane for biofuel production, could contribute to sustainable bioenergy development. This approach is vital for combating deforestation, land degradation, and desertification, as well as for achieving broader development goals. However, there is a need for balance, ensuring that bioenergy development does not adversely affect food security or contribute to environmental degradation. Such sustainable approaches require ongoing collaboration with partners and stakeholders to be successful.
To fully capitalize on bioenergy’s potential, Africa must navigate the complexities of integrating sustainable practices into its burgeoning energy sector while simultaneously protecting its natural resources. Collaborative efforts, underpinned by international support and investment, are crucial for stimulating sustainable and inclusive growth in the energy sector. Africa’s future energy systems will likely be increasingly powered by renewables, with solar PV leading the way given the continent’s vast solar resources.
For a comprehensive understanding of the topic, more information can be found in the publications by the International Energy Agency, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and research by the International Renewable Energy Agency.