Category: GREEN AGENDA

Africa’s Role in Supplying Critical Minerals for the Green Energy Revolution

  • January 14, 2025
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As the global economy pivots towards sustainability, the demand for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements (REEs) has surged. These materials are the cornerstone of modern clean energy technologies, powering everything from electric vehicles (EVs) to renewable energy storage systems. Africa, endowed with vast deposits of these resources, is increasingly at the forefront of the green energy transition. But how can the continent navigate its opportunities and challenges in this burgeoning sector?

Nornickel Eyes Innovation to Sustain Palladium Demand Amid Shifting Global Trends

  • November 28, 2024
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Nornickel, the world’s largest palladium producer, is exploring new technologies to sustain demand for palladium, particularly in China, as the rise of electric vehicles diminishes the need for the metal in traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The company is partnering with Chinese universities and industries to develop applications in hydrogen production and water purification, which could generate up to 15 tons of new, long-term palladium demand. As China leads the charge in green technologies, Nornickel is positioning itself to meet the evolving demand and maintain its market dominance through innovation and collaboration.

Unlocking Africa’s Growth Potential: The Role of Transport Infrastructure

  • November 28, 2024
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Africa’s economic growth and social progress hinge on modern, integrated transport infrastructure to connect communities, boost trade, and reduce inequality. Challenges such as poor road networks, congested ports, and inadequate cross-border systems hinder the movement of goods and people, raising logistics costs and limiting competitiveness. Governments are prioritizing transport infrastructure under initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), supported by innovative financing models like public-private partnerships (PPPs). Institutions like Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking play a crucial role in mobilizing investment to unlock Africa’s potential, paving the way for a connected, prosperous, and inclusive future.

Ethiopia Bans Non-Electric Car Imports: Leading the Way Toward a Green Future

  • November 8, 2024
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Ethiopia has made a groundbreaking move by becoming the first country in the world to ban the import of non-electric private vehicles. This ambitious policy, which took effect in January, aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable energy. While the country is rapidly increasing its electric vehicle (EV) imports, challenges such as a shortage of infrastructure, skilled technicians, and vehicle reliability issues remain. Despite these hurdles, Ethiopia’s commitment to a green transition, supported by the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, sets the stage for a new chapter in global efforts towards cleaner transportation.

Global Shifts in Battery Manufacturing: Africa’s Role in the Future of Clean Energy

  • November 8, 2024
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Africa stands on the cusp of becoming a global leader in battery manufacturing, thanks to its rich reserves of lithium, nickel, manganese, and copper. With the US and EU diversifying supply chains away from China, Africa’s cost-competitive advantage in refining – up to 40% lower costs by 2030 – positions the continent to transition from a raw material exporter to a producer of high-value battery components. Strategic investments, supportive policies, and a focus on sustainability could enable African nations to power the global shift to clean energy while creating jobs and economic growth across the region.

Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage: A Beacon for South Africa’s Energy Future

  • July 2, 2024
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Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) offers South Africa a crucial solution to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. The Council for Geoscience’s (CGS) dedication to advancing CCUS technology, in partnership with various stakeholders, is a positive move. Integrating CCUS with renewable energy, creating supportive policies, and increasing public awareness can lead to a resilient, sustainable energy future. South Africa’s proactive efforts in CCUS can become a model for other coal-dependent countries, demonstrating that with determination, innovation, and collaboration, it is possible to meet climate goals and ensure a prosperous future.

Africa’s Clean Energy Surge: A Beacon of Hope in Declining Foreign Investments

  • June 23, 2024
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Despite a slight decline in overall foreign investment flows to Africa in 2023, the continent’s clean energy sector has seen a remarkable surge, attracting significant global interest. Noteworthy investments include a $34 billion green hydrogen project in Mauritania and over $10 billion for wind and solar projects in Egypt, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. These developments highlight Africa’s growing commitment to sustainability and its potential to lead in renewable energy, driving economic growth and environmental progress.

The Fascinating Journey of Turning Mechanical Energy into Electrical Power

  • June 16, 2024
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The process of turning mechanical energy into electrical power is a marvel of modern engineering. From school experiments with magnets and coils to massive power plants with turbines spinning at high speeds, the principles remain the same but the scale is astounding. This article delves into the key components of power generators—rotor, stator, and core—and explores how they work together to produce the electricity that powers millions of homes. Discover the fascinating mechanics behind the scenes of our electrical grid and the challenges engineers face in this high-stakes industry.

Sonatrach Expands Energy Projects in Algeria, Boosts Gas Supplies to Europe

  • June 2, 2024
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Sonatrach, Algeria’s state-owned energy giant, has forged pivotal partnerships with Baker Hughes and Tecnimont to bolster the nation’s energy infrastructure. The collaboration aims to enhance gas production at the renowned Hassi R’Mel gas field, positioning Algeria as a key player in Europe’s energy supply chain.

UNDP Announces Groundbreaking Start-Up Ecosystem Event in South Africa

  • May 17, 2024
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The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is thrilled to announce an exciting new event in South Africa as part of the “UNDP Meet the Toshikas” initiative, which also spans Angola and Zambia. This event is set to connect investors, accelerators, incubators, local corporates, and governmental bodies with innovative start-ups. Out of 254 applicants, 10 outstanding start-ups from South Africa have been selected to pitch their groundbreaking ideas. The event will feature insightful presentations and panel discussions with key ecosystem stakeholders and esteemed Japanese investors, fostering robust

business networks and facilitating collaboration opportunities. Supported by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), “Meet the Toshikas” aims to empower young African entrepreneurs, enhance their competitiveness, and attract Japanese venture capital investment to Africa. For more information, visit UNDP Meet the Toshikas.