Technological Pathways to Net-Zero Goals in Africa

The Paris Agreement aims for Africa to achieve net-zero goals by the middle of the century, and several emerging strategies and technological options have been identified. This chapter promotes the rapid creation of sectoral and regional transition plans through technological pathways to reduce regional emissions and meet the Paris goals. These paths must consider regional capacities, politics, resources, and other critical circumstances and must be understood and supported by stakeholders. Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, are promising approaches, but they require investment, policies, and support from stakeholders. Smart energy management, which involves advanced technologies to optimize energy use and reduce waste, is another option. Carbon capture and storage technologies can capture emissions from power plants and industrial processes, which can be stored underground or repurposed for other uses. Hydrogen energy is another emerging approach, as it can be produced from renewable sources and used as a clean fuel for transportation and power generation. Political support and cooperation are necessary to create policies and regulations supporting the transition to renewable energy sources. Ensuring that all stakeholders are engaged and supportive of the transition is crucial for its success. By pursuing a combination of these approaches, Africa can make significant progress toward achieving its net-zero goals by mid-century.