Analysis of the spatial composition of energy storage sites in africa

How many solar sites are there in Africa?

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has published a dataset with 10,905 sites for PV deployment across Africa, with an estimated total capacity of 4.9 TW. Spatial distribution of solar and wind regions across Africa Image: IRENA, Scientific Data, Creative Commons License CC BY 4.0

Is South Africa achieving its energy system aspirations?

South Africa (SA), like other developing countries, faces many challenges on the road to achieving its energy system aspirations. SA is a high GHG emitter and heavily coal reliant. RE is being introduced into the electricity supply system, but only comprised 3.7GW out of a total installed capacity of over 50GW in 2018.

What is the link between spatial planning and energy systems?

As energy systems are key infrastructures of society, they are also an important issue of spatial planning. So far, the link between spatial planning and energy systems is mainly dealing with the problem that the energy provision of the built environment is guaranteed, may it be for residential, commercial or industrial development.

Why is spatial planning important in a society based on renewable resources?

The utilisation of arable land as well as forests and hence spatial planning becomes much more intricate in a society based on renewable resources as a result of the intrinsic need for energy from biomass. Finally logistical considerations become central to the energy system.

How much energy does South Africa use a year?

South Africa consumes around 6.5TJ of primary energy a year (DMRE, 2017). Most of the energy comes from coal, supplied domestically. Coal, which accounts for over 85% of domestic primary energy production is used primarily in electricity generation (70%) and in liquid fuels production (21%) (National Planning Commission (NPC), 2018).

How many MSRs are there for solar PV in Africa?

The dataset offers 10,905 MSRs for solar PV across Africa with an estimated total capacity of 4.9 TW.