IEA Charts Path to Universal Clean Cooking Access Across Africa by 2040
The International Energy Agency has released a comprehensive roadmap aimed at achieving universal access to clean cooking solutions across sub-Saharan Africa by 2040, proposing to reach 80 million people annually through diverse technology solutions including LPG, electricity, bioethanol, and advanced biomass stoves.
The report, titled “Universal Access to Clean Cooking in Africa,” outlines an ambitious but achievable pathway requiring $37 billion in cumulative investment over the next 15 years. According to IEA projections, this investment could yield transformative results, including preventing 4.7 million premature deaths, creating 460,000 new jobs, and reducing annual emissions by 540 million tons.
IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating that “2025 can be a turning point for Africa” and describing the report as providing “a clear, data-driven roadmap for every household across Africa to gain access” to clean cooking solutions.
The comprehensive approach recognizes that different regions and communities will require tailored solutions based on local conditions, economic factors, and infrastructure availability. The plan incorporates multiple technology pathways to ensure flexibility and sustainability across diverse African markets and environments.
The health implications of the initiative extend far beyond convenience, addressing one of Africa’s most pressing public health challenges. Traditional cooking methods using solid fuels contribute significantly to indoor air pollution, respiratory diseases, and premature mortality across the continent.
The economic benefits of universal clean cooking access extend beyond direct job creation, supporting broader economic development through improved health outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and enhanced productivity across affected communities.
Source: energycapitalpower.com
