By Anna Lexxy Mbucho
Africa’s energy needs can be met in an environmentally responsible way by using the sun and wind to create electricity. Here’s how to use these renewable energy sources in a sustainable way:
Solar PV systems use semiconductor-based solar cells to directly convert sunlight into electricity. Throughout their existence, they leave behind very little carbon footprint and emit no emissions. To reduce any possible environmental harm, PV panels must be disposed of and recycled properly at the end of their useful lives. Large sun farms can be found in nations like South Africa, Morocco, and Kenya. One of the most concentrated solar power facilities in the world is the Noor Complex in Morocco.
In solar thermal systems, sunlight is focused through mirrors or lenses to heat a fluid, which generates steam and powers turbines to generate energy. They have low operating emissions, just like photovoltaic systems. Water use and land footprint are the main environmental factors, and these can be reduced with appropriate site selection and design.
Onshore wind farms with wind turbines use revolving blades coupled to a generator to transform wind energy from kinetic energy to electrical energy. Because land in between turbines is frequently used for agricultural, wind power has low operating emissions and a comparatively little environmental impact. The two biggest issues are noise and visual effect, which may be reduced with appropriate site selection and community involvement. The Project for Wind Power at Lake Turkana
Similar to onshore wind farms, offshore wind farms capitalize on stronger and more reliable wind speeds by placing their turbines in bodies of water. On land, they don’t compete for space and have very little visual impact. Careful planning and environmental studies are essential, though, as they may have an impact on marine life.
Greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution are reduced when solar and wind power are used instead of fossil fuels. Through the provision of electricity, renewable energy can foster social and economic development in isolated and underserved areas. Manufacturing, installing, maintaining, and running solar and wind power systems generate a lot of jobs in the renewable energy industry.
Diversifying energy sources with solar and wind enhances grid stability and energy security, reducing the risk of power outages and price volatility associated with fossil fuels. By investing in and expanding the use of solar and wind power, African countries can achieve sustainable energy development while protecting the environment and improving the quality of life for their citizens.