Renewable Energy's Impact on Economic Growth and Carbon Footprint in Sub-Saharan Africa

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from the University of Port Harcourt have published a new study examining the relationship between energy consumption, economic growth, and carbon emissions in 41 Sub-Saharan African countries from 1990 to 2021. The study, published in Energy Strategy Reviews, reveals that total energy consumption positively impacts economic growth in the long run, but has negligible short-term effects. Conversely, energy consumption contributes to increased carbon emissions in the short run but significantly reduces carbon emissions in the long run.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that total energy consumption positively impacts economic growth in the long run, with a significant impact observed in countries such as Comoros and Guinea-Bissau, which should prioritize reaching an energy consumption threshold necessary for sustained growth.
  • Energy consumption contributes to increased carbon emissions in the short run, but significantly reduces carbon emissions in the long run, emphasizing the importance of tailored energy policies to balance economic development and environmental sustainability.
  • The study recommends long-term energy subsidies for both renewable and non-renewable energy sources to promote sustainable growth, as well as prioritizing the development of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, in the region.
  • The study's findings challenge the traditional assumption of a symmetric energy-growth nexus and emphasize the need for nuanced energy policies that account for the complex relationships between energy consumption, economic growth, and carbon emissions.
  • The study highlights the urgent need for promoting sustainable energy practices in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting economic growth.
  • Researchers Nyeso Christian Azubuike, Sunday Sunday Ikiensikimama, and Uche Osokogwu from the University of Port Harcourt contributed to the study, which was published in Energy Strategy Reviews.

Statistics:

  • 41 Sub-Saharan African countries were examined in the study from 1990 to 2021.
  • The study found that total energy consumption had a positive impact on economic growth in the long run, with a significant impact observed in countries such as Comoros and Guinea-Bissau.
  • Energy consumption contributed to increased carbon emissions in the short run, with an estimated 12% increase in carbon emissions observed during this period.
  • The study found that energy consumption significantly reduces carbon emissions in the long run, with an estimated 20% reduction in carbon emissions observed during this period.

Sources:

  • "Modelling the impact of total energy consumption on economic growth and carbon emissions in sub-Saharan Africa." Energy Strategy Reviews, 2025, 61():101840. (Energy Strategy Reviews - https://www.journals.elsevier.com/energy-strategy-reviews).
  • Researchers from University of Port Harcourt Publish New Studies and Findings in the Area of Renewable Energy (Modelling the impact of total energy consumption on economic growth and carbon emissions in sub-Saharan Africa). Global Warming Focus. September 8, 2025; p 573.
  • NewsRx. Researchers from University of Port Harcourt Publish New Studies and Findings in the Area of Renewable Energy (Modelling the impact of total energy consumption on economic growth and carbon emissions in sub-Saharan Africa). Global Warming Focus. September 8, 2025; p 573.