Are energy storage boom times extending to Africa?

Boom times for energy storage have extended to the continent of Africa, with a 10-fold increase in installed storage supporting grids and renewable energy penetration.

How many GWh of storage projects are being built in Africa?

AFSIA said similar projects have also been launched in Senegal, Malawi, Botswana, Tanzania, Namibia and Mauritius, for a total of 500 MW plus. In total, AFSIA says around 18GWh of storage projects are under development across Africa. Tristan is an Electrical Engineer with experience in consulting and public sector works in plant procurement.

How can energy storage help fill the short-term supply gap?

The report notes this initiative, which is described as a means to fill the short-term supply gap, alleviate the electricity supply constraints, and reduce the extensive utilisation of diesel-based peaking electrical generators. Several initiatives and drivers for energy storage have also been introduced to African countries.

How much energy can a Noor molten salt plant store?

The Noor I CSP plant features a full-load molten salt storage capacity of three hours, while the Noor II and III CSP plants are able to store energy for up to seven hours each, thus providing a combined total of 3 GWh of electricity storage.

How has energy storage changed in 2022?

This has resulted in an increase in energy storage levels in recent years. In 2022, the continent had around 50MWh of energy storage capacity installed. Since then, energy storage capacity tripled in 2023 and then experienced another 10-fold increase in 2024. Image: AFSIA Solar.

Which large-scale projects are launching a new generation of solar power?

Large-scale projects are continuing the trend, with those announced or starting construction including the second phase of the Soma Project in The Gambia with 100 MW/130 MWh, and the 900 MW PV/720 MWh storage project in Egypt developed by Masdar and Infinity Power.