Transitioning to renewable electric energy in rapidly urbanizing Sub-Saharan Africa: Challenges and opportunities

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces a confluence of critical challenges, including limited energy access, rapid urbanization, and the pursuit of inclusive economic growth, compounded by the global urgency of climate action. This study investigates the potential for SSA to transition toward renewable energy as a cornerstone of sustainable development. Emphasizing the region's acute vulnerability to climate change, it underscores the necessity of embedding renewable energy strategies within both urbanization processes and broader developmental agendas. By analyzing trends in renewable energy adoption and classifying SSA countries by urbanization trajectories and energy policy orientations, the study reveals pronounced regional disparities that shape the feasibility and equity of the transition. • Adopting renewable energy in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) could reduce greenhouse gas emissions but does not always improve energy accessibility. • SSA countries' reliance on non-renewable energy sources is closely linked to better energy accessibility, higher economic growth, and urbanization. • Investment in renewable energy infrastructure alone cannot promote economic growth without addressing energy accessibility barriers.