Power Africa leverages Partnerships to Increase Access to Electricity in sub-Saharan Africa

Approximately 53 percent of sub-Saharan Africa's population lives without access to electricity. Power Africa was launched in 2013 to harness the collective resources of the public and private sectors to improve access to affordable and reliable electricity in sub-Saharan Africa.

THE GOAL

Power Africa’s goal is to add at least 30,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity generation capacity and 60 million new home and business connections by 2030.

STRENGTH IN PARTNERSHIP

The Power Africa model is based on effective partnerships that link public and private sector goals and resources, and connect investors and entrepreneurs to business opportunities in sub-Saharan Africa. With U.S. agencies, African governments, private sector actors, and other stakeholders serving as partners in the enterprise — Power Africa uses collective problem solving to support African leaders to pave their own future.

To learn more about our partners visit: https://www.usaid.gov/powerafrica/partners

HOW WE WORK

Power Africa is connecting sub-Saharan Africa’s population to the electricity grid, and providing access to those who live beyond it. Our unique approach is defined by:

• Transaction Focus: Power Africa addresses obstacles that hinder energy projects and fosters an investment-friendly environment through supportive laws and policies.

• African-Led: Power Africa works with African governments and institutions to fill critical skills gaps, drive reforms, and build and maintain resilient power sectors.

• On-the-Ground Assistance: Power Africa advisors are based in country and provide technical, financial, and political expertise, collaborating with governments, companies, and communities to accelerate access to power. 

• Connecting Companies to Deals: Power Africa partners with companies and investors to leverage market opportunities where technology can increase access to reliable electricity.

• Bridging the Financing Gap: Power Africa leverages tools, like credit guarantees, insurance instruments, and 
  technical assistance to de-risk investments and attract public and private funding.

• Advancing Off-Grid Solutions: Through partnerships with off-grid solution providers, Power Africa delivers electricity to millions of people for the first time, expanding reliable energy access to underserved communities beyond the reach of traditional grids.

Power Africa is the U.S. government’s commitment to working with African partners to end energy poverty and unleash the continent’s economic potential.