Renewable Energy Production and Economic Growth in Africa: An Empirical Analysis through the Lens of the Environmental Kuznets Curve Model

Abstract This study investigates the effect of economic growth on renewable energy production in 52 African countries over the period 1990–2023, within the framework of the environmental Kuznets curve. Using robust weighted least squares and estimated generalized least squares with fixed effects, the empirical findings support a U-shaped effect, with the turning point, where further economic growth begins to promote renewable energy production, estimated between 2.28% and 4.91%. This result helps explain why many African countries currently exhibit low levels of renewable energy production, as they remain below the economic threshold necessary to trigger a shift toward sustainable energy. The policy implications of these findings highlight the need for targeted support to overcome the economic and structural barriers to renewable energy transition. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the critical role of international climate finance, foreign direct investment, and regional cooperation frameworks in accelerating renewable energy deployment across the continent.