The European Union has announced a major funding package worth €545 million ($638 million) to drive renewable energy expansion across Africa. The initiative is designed to improve electricity access, modernize power grids, and support clean energy transitions in nine countries.

According to the European Commission, nearly 600 million people on the continent still live without electricity despite Africa’s vast solar, wind, and hydropower resources. The new programme, unveiled over the weekend, is projected to generate up to 38 million green jobs by 2030.

Funding Breakdown
The largest allocation goes to Côte d’Ivoire, which will receive €359.4 million to develop a high-voltage transmission project aimed at strengthening regional energy supply.

Other beneficiaries include:

Cameroon: €59.1 million for rural electrification projects.

Somalia: €45.5 million to expand affordable renewable energy access.

Republic of Congo: €3.5 million to support solar, wind, and hydropower expansion.

Lesotho: €25.9 million under its “Renewable Lesotho” programme to unlock hydro and wind resources.

Ghana: €2 million for groundwork on a large-scale solar park and regional power trade.

Madagascar: €33.2 million for rural mini-grid electrification.

Mozambique: €13 million to back a low-emission energy transition and attract private investors.

A Step Toward Africa’s Energy Future
EU officials say the initiative underscores Europe’s commitment to supporting Africa’s energy transformation while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. With strong investments in infrastructure and renewable projects, the bloc hopes to accelerate electrification and create sustainable growth opportunities across the continent.

If successful, the programme could not only improve living standards for millions of Africans but also position the continent as a global leader in renewable energy development.