ECOWAS targets 48% renewable energy in West Africa by 2030
The Economic Community of West African States has set a target of raising the share of renewable energy in the region's electricity mix to 48 percent by 2030, as the bloc works to address chronic power shortages.
The goal, reaffirmed at a meeting of the ECOWAS Parliament held in Dakar, Senegal, is part of a broader push for universal access to reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity across West Africa by the end of the decade.
The renewable energy policy aims to lift the share of renewable sources, including large hydropower, to 48 percent, while a parallel energy efficiency policy seeks to cut electricity losses currently estimated at between 35 and 40 percent due to ageing infrastructure.
To meet the target, the bloc is leaning on utility-scale solar, hydropower and emerging green hydrogen projects. Many West African countries struggle with unreliable supply and low electrification rates, particularly in rural areas, which holds back industry and economic growth.
The commitment forms part of a regional energy transition agenda intended to expand generation capacity, modernise grids and attract investment, even as the bloc navigates political tensions following the departure of several Sahel states from its ranks.
