The annual report of Power Africa, the initiative of the United States Government launched a decade ago to help African people access to affordable energy, highlighted major achievements.
The 2023 Annual Report released today showcases the people and partners that contributed to a decade of Power Africa accomplishments. Ten years ago, the United States made a pledge to the people of sub-Saharan Africa: To end energy poverty for millions by 2030.
The initiative was an ambitious promise to turn more lights on in homes and businesses. To electrify hospitals and rural clinics. To energize entrepreneurship and economic growth and in general to Power Africa.
Power Africa 2023 major highlights include:
- DELIVERED first-time and improved electricity access to 33 MILLION people through 6.7 MILLION new on- and off-grid connections to homes and businesses
- SWITCHED ON 1,042 MW of clean energy-based electricity to power homes and businesses
- EXTENDED 4,100 KM of power lines across West Africa improving transmission and distribution structures to reach more people.
- INVESTED over $173 MILLION from USAID to increase access to clean, reliable energy in East, Central, and Southern Africa
- CATALYZED $1.05 BILLION in financing for power projects, including $362 million for off-grid energy solutions
- UNIFIED 12 national power grids in West Africa to improve energy access through regional power trade
- DIRECTED $13.8 MILLION into regional clean energy initiatives as part of the President’s Emergency Plan for Adaptation and Resilience
- ELECTRIFIED and digitally connected 227 HEALTH FACILITIES through the Health Electrification and Telecommunications Alliance
- FORGED new partnerships and reinforced relationships with seven development partners and seven private sector partners
- LAUNCHED Growing Green Jobs for Women to equip 500 women and youth with skills needed to thrive in Nigeria’s renewable energy industry
- ENGAGED 100+ U.S. COMPANIES to explore deal opportunities in innovative clean energy technologies through the U.S.-Africa Clean Tech Energy Network
The annual report also mentioned that Power Africa also delivered on the Biden-Harris Administration pledges and Just Energy Transition commitments set out at the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, including projects under the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment.