In South Africa, 47% of the population faces energy poverty, spending a significant portion of their income on inadequate electricity. The situation is worsening due to the growth of informal settlements, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. A study focused on the Qandu Qandu settlement examines the impact of a basic solar grant on providing cheaper electricity, raising questions about the viability of solar mini-grids as a solution for those leaving the traditional electricity network.

Despite a reduction in load shedding and fewer power cuts in South Africa, electricity bills are increasing. This rise in costs is attributed to significant tariff increases approved by the National Energy Regulator, leading to confusion among consumers about why prices are climbing when the power supply is more stable.

A study tracking 3,139 power plants in Africa reveals that fossil fuels continue to dominate the continent's electricity generation, with only about 57% of the population having access to electricity, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. To achieve the United Nations goal of universal access to affordable electricity by 2030, rapid expansion of electricity generation is necessary. However, this expansion poses challenges related to water resources and climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, particularly coal-fired ones.

Uganda's 2026/27 national budget allocates Shs2.07 trillion for energy development, which includes funding for the 380-megawatt Kiba hydropower plant, a floating solar facility at Isimba, and 500 megawatts of utility-scale solar in the Elgon and Acholi regions. Additionally, it includes preparatory work for nuclear power at Buyende and emphasizes the need for expanding transmission lines and substations to support these initiatives.

The electricity deputy minister announced that the South African government plans to create more jobs in the renewable energy sector through the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM).

Johannesburg has taken out a significant loan to address its electricity issues, as the city's power infrastructure and billing systems require urgent improvements. A survey indicated that only 38% of residents were satisfied with their electricity services in 2023/2024, a sharp decline from 77% in 2017/18. The auditor general reported that the city allocated only 1% of its operating budget for maintenance in 2024/25, well below the recommended 8%.