Atlas of Africa Energy Resources

The project involved the development of an Atlas of Africa Energy Resources, providing a comprehensive view of Africa’s energy needs, resources, and opportunities. It includes visual representations of where resources are, where potential for expansion occurs, and possible impacts on the environment. The atlas synthesizes data from various sources, including satellite imagery analysed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, and input from a wide range of experts.

Partners

African Development Bank (AfDB), Infrastructure Consortium for Africa (ICA), UNEP ROA

Region / Country

Africa

Objectives

To compile and synthesize relevant data and information about Africa’s energy resources in a format that is easily understandable to both the public and policymakers.

Timeline

From – To     2017 – 2018

Outcomes

• The Atlas of Africa Energy Resources, which illustrates the distribution and potential of Africa’s energy resources, as well as their potential environmental impacts. The atlas also provides information on the challenges and opportunities related to providing Africa’s population with access to reliable, affordable, and modern energy services.
• Achieve greater visibility and uptake of messages contained in the Regional Global Environment Outlook – 6 and the Atlas of Africa Energy Resources and catalyse action amongst policymakers, governmental institutions, and the general public.

Publications/website/portal

The Atlas of Africa Energy Resources, presumably available through the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Infrastructure Consortium for Africa (ICA) websites, alongside other associated partners.

Relevance to SDGs

The Atlas of Africa Energy Resources directly contributes to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Primarily, it aligns with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by providing comprehensive information on Africa’s energy resources and needs and highlighting opportunities for expanding access to reliable, affordable, and modern energy services. It also supports SDG 13 (Climate Action) by indicating potential environmental impacts of energy resource exploitation. Further, the project contributes to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by helping to inform infrastructure planning and development in the energy sector, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering international cooperation for sustainable energy in Africa.