This open access book analyses barriers and challenges associated with the financing of clean energy access in sub-Saharan Africa. By considering various economic, financial, political, environmental and social factors, it explores the consequences of energy poverty across the region and maps the real and perceived investment risks for potential capital providers, both domestic and international. Furthermore, it analyses risk mitigation strategies and innovative financing structures available to the public and private sectors, which are aimed at leveraging capital in the clean energy sector at scale and fostering the creation of an enabling business and investment environment.
More specifically, the present book analyses how to (i) enhance capital allocation in projects and organisations that foster clean energy access in the region, (ii) mobilize private capital at scale and (iii) decrease the cost of financing through risk mitigation strategies. Going beyond traditional approaches, the book also considers socioeconomic and cultural aspects associated with investment barriers across the subcontinent. Moreover, it urges the public and private spheres to become more actively involved in tackling this pressing development issue, and provides policy recommendations for the public sector, including proposals for business model evolution at multilateral agencies and development institutions. It will appeal to a wide readership of both academics and professionals working in the energy industry, the financial sector and the political sphere, as well as to general readers interested in the ongoing debate about energy, sustainable development and finance.
Bruno Michoud is a Senior Researcher at the “Future Energy” research program of the Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei (FEEM), Italy. His research focuses on the financing of the energy transition globally – and most specifically in Africa. He has almost a decade of experience in sustainable finance and impact investing, collaborating with social and environmental entities as well as capital providers in developing and industrialized countries.
Prof. Dr. Manfred HAFNER is Professor of International Energy Economics and Geopolitics teaching at the Johns Hopkins University of Advanced International Studies (SAIS Europe) and at SciencesPo PSIA. He is the Coordinator of the Future Energy research Program of the Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei (FEEM), Italy. He has extensively consulted for governments, international organizations and the energy industry all over the world and in particular in MENA.
