Page 493 - 2016 - Vol. 40

investments. While public investment is still limited in this
part, only the private investment can play a major role in filling
this gap. Thus, promoting private investment in renewable
energy technologies and off-grid power generation is crucial to
accelerate the renewable energy deployment in a region where
it is much needed (9) .

So, to understand how private investment works and how
it can be effectively promoted and mobilized through some
public initiatives, this paper aims at applying SWOT analysis
to illustrate the main drivers and barriers faced by the private
investors in renewable energy sector in Africa. Accordingly,
this study is structured as follows: section II provides an
overview of current status of renewable energy projects in the
continent. Then, sections III and VI demonstrate the challenges
(threats, weaknesses) and benefits (strengths, opportunities)
private investors face while engaging in the renewable energy
sector in Africa. Finally, section V presents some key solutions
and a number of recommendations that can help at improving
conditions of this vital sector and attracting more private
investments to it.

II. Current Trend of Renewable Energy Projects in Africa
Although electricity access rate in Africa is the lowest

in the world, the region has witnessed considerable growth in
electricity generation since 1998 (about 4 % as an average annual
growth rate). Fortunately, more than 60% of all new electricity
generated has come from renewable sources (see figure (1)).

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