With a rapidly expanding population and increasing urbanisation, Africa’s energy demand is projected to soar, requiring innovative solutions, sustainable practices and significant investments to deliver reliable, affordable and clean energy, says events management company and Africa Energy Indaba organiser Siyenza Management MD Liz Hart.

The Africa Energy Indaba 2025 – taking place from March 4 to 6 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre under the theme ‘Igniting the Power Revolution’ – emphasises the importance of empowering Africa’s energy sector to drive economic growth, bridge energy access gaps and support industrialisation.

It also highlights the pivotal roles that renewable energy, grid modernisation and innovative financing play in building a resilient energy future for the continent.

“By uniting energy leaders, policymakers and innovators under this powerful theme, this year’s Indaba aims to catalyse transformative action and ignite a revolution that will empower Africa to raise its energy potential,” Hart explains.

The event is set to facilitate engagements with global energy leaders, policymakers and industry experts as they address critical issues, including renewable-energy expansion, infrastructure financing and innovative technologies shaping Africa’s energy landscape.

Attendees can expect to discover investment-ready projects and connect with financiers, developers and policymakers in an exclusive setting designed to facilitate partnerships and accelerate deals.

Further, the Energy Indaba will also enable attendees to explore advanced technologies and solutions from leading energy companies and innovators, showcasing products that will drive the continent’s energy transformation.

This year’s event is also set to introduce the inaugural T&D Africa Conference & Expo, a dedicated platform addressing the critical role of transmission and distribution in Africa’s energy transition. The focus of this expo is the need to modernise and expand power grids to meet the continent’s growing energy demands.

With over 600-million Africans without access to electricity, and energy demand projected to double by 2040, Hart contends that the Energy Indaba is well positioned to address the continent’s urgent need for sustainable, secure and scalable energy solutions.

Scalable Strategies

Hart highlights that safeguarding Africa’s energy future requires a multifaceted strategy that addresses immediate energy access challenges while building a foundation for long-term sustainability.

Expanding the deployment of renewable-energy technologies is essential for meeting the growing energy demand while reducing the continent’s reliance on fossil fuels. With Africa’s vast renewable resources, investments in clean energy could drive access and sustainability, Hart notes.

Further, with Africa requiring significant investments – estimated at over $190-billion a year – to meet its energy goals, public–private partnerships, green bonds and results-based financing mechanisms could unlock the funds needed to scale energy projects across the continent.

Additionally, Hart says governments on the continent must implement supportive policies and regulatory frameworks that incentivise investments, streamline project approvals and ensure fair competition in the energy market.

Initiatives such as pooling resources and expertise could help countries to address cross-border energy challenges, enhance grid interconnectivity and share best practices.

Moreover, incorporating climate resilience into energy planning is crucial to ensure that energy infrastructure can withstand the effects of climate change, thereby safeguarding long-term energy security.

“By implementing these strategies, Africa can achieve a secure, sustainable and inclusive energy future that drives economic growth and improves the quality of life for millions,” Hart notes.