Governance Challenges in the Expansion of Renewable Energy in Africa

Povzetek

The expansion of renewable energy has become an essential strategy for addressing energy shortages, promoting sustainable development, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels across many African countries. Despite the continent’s vast potential in renewable energy resources such as solar, wind, and hydro power, the development and implementation of renewable energy projects remain relatively limited. One of the key factors influencing this situation is the presence of governance challenges that affect policy implementation, institutional coordination, and investment environments in the energy sector. This study aims to examine the governance challenges that influence the expansion of renewable energy in Africa. The research employs a qualitative approach using a systematic literature review method to analyze academic studies, policy reports, and institutional publications related to renewable energy governance in the African context. Data were collected from various scholarly databases and relevant policy documents and were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key governance issues affecting renewable energy development. The findings indicate that several major governance barriers continue to hinder renewable energy expansion in Africa. These challenges include regulatory and policy inconsistencies, limited institutional capacity, political and economic influences on energy governance, and financial and investment governance constraints. These governance issues create uncertainty in the policy environment, weaken institutional effectiveness, and reduce investor confidence in renewable energy projects. The study highlights the importance of strengthening governance frameworks, improving institutional coordination, and developing transparent financial mechanisms to support renewable energy development. Strengthening governance structures is therefore essential for enabling African countries to effectively harness their renewable energy potential while promoting sustainable energy transitions and long-term economic development.