Improving the Enabling Environment Creating Self-Reliance in the Power Sector

Government-led partnership that aims to double access to electricity in sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative harnesses the collective resources of over 170 public and private sector partners to achieve this goal. Since its inception in 2013, Power Africa-supported projects have added nearly 12,500 megawatts (MW) of cleaner and more reliable electricity and more than 27 million new power connections for homes and businesses. Power Africa focuses on creating a strong, functional, and sustainable power system by strengthening the enabling environment for the energy sector. The initiative advocates for and helps develop well-crafted independent power producer (IPP) laws and other legislation that establish clear lines of accountability among private developers, governments, and regulators. This reduces investor risk and encourages increased private investment in the power sector. The initiative supports governments in undertaking long-term power sector planning that prioritizes an optimal generation mix, distribution and transmission infrastructure, and off-grid solutions. Power Africa also promotes competitive procurement processes that reflect international best practices, increase investor confidence, lower costs, and facilitate sustainable investments. Additionally, the initiative draws on energy expertise to strengthen utility operations and management and determine the true cost of delivering power. In various countries, Power Africa has implemented specific interventions to support the development of the power sector. In Senegal, the initiative partnered with the Ministry of Energy and the national utility to improve demand forecasting, resulting in a generation and transmission master plan through 2035. The plan includes integration of 632 MW of grid-connected solar and wind power. In Côte d'Ivoire, Power Africa worked with the Government to develop a national renewable energy policy and an Off-Grid Electrification Action Plan, providing a policy and regulatory framework for off-grid electrification. Power Africa also promotes women's advancement in the energy sector through support to USAID's Engendering Utilities program. The program works directly with electricity and water utilities in developing countries to increase economic opportunities for women and improve gender equality in the workplace. By improving labor market participation by women, power sector utilities can increase operational efficiencies that will bring greater economic value to energy companies.