The Africa Renewable Energy Manufacturing Initiative (Africa REMI) aims to catalyse the growth of green manufacturing industries in Africa in support of low-carbon economic development.
Launched during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2023 (ADSW), Africa REMI focuses on helping Africa-based manufacturers of solar PV, battery and e-mobility technologies grow their operations and expand their markets, leading to job creation and income generation.
The initiative places a strong emphasis on South-South cooperation and creating opportunities for companies across regions to connect, learn from one another and forge partnerships while also bringing focus on critical minerals supply chains Through its efforts, Africa REMI hopes to unlock up to USD 850 million in catalytic investment to advance clean energy manufacturing capacity across Africa.
Under the green transition scenario, Africa boasts an impressive potential
1.2
Terawatts of energy potential
14 m
Employement opportunities
6.4%
Surge in GDP
This report draws on multiple sources, including economic analysis from McKinsey & Company. The authors are responsible for the conclusions and recommendations of the research.
The Opportunity
Africa’s demand for power is projected to grow eight-fold by 2050. Renewables will meet much of this demand growth, which creates an immense market opportunity for establishing local green manufacturing hubs.
Africa REMI’s efforts are directed towards four key priorities that are essential to green manufacturing scale-up
Build Africa’s green manufacturing workforce
Support training, employment, and career development opportunities for engineers and technicians in Africa through, for example, support for technical schools, and worker exchange.
Attract green manufacturers to Africa
Support business cases and match best practice partnerships to provide mature green manufacturers with better access to consulting and financing services.
Incubate African green manufacturing projects
Support the enablement of pilot projects that demonstrate the viability of manufacturing solar PV, batteries and e-mobility solutions.
Enable a best-in-class business environment and drive market demand
Partner with African government officials to bolster their policymaking for green manufacturing through policy awareness, and advocacy.
“Developing Africa’s green manufacturing capabilities is one of the key strategies to fostering growth, producing decent employment opportunities, and eradicating poverty while ensuring that Africa is not left behind in the global energy transition agenda. I therefore urge my fellow Ministers and stakeholders to come up with bold and implementable economic models and solutions that will enable the realization of Africa’s green manufacturing aspirations.”
Matthew Opoku Premeh, Minister of Energy of Ghana
