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African solar farms could solve the world’s energy crisis. Why are governments so quiet about these radical agendas?
Virtually all Europe’s power might be supplied by panels in Africa’s deserts, and hard investment is finally coming to bear. Giles Crosse reflects on the issues.
“Northern Africa has a large and untapped solar potential which could, if actually used, play a significant role,” says Arnulf Jaeger-Waldau. He works for the European Commission’s Institute for Energy.
“However, it has to be stressed that there should be a balance between decentralised solar energy production, in Africa as well as Europe, and large centralised solar power stations.”
Jaeger-Waldau is not alone. The Desertec Industrial Initiative consists of 12 European companies. They’ve just set a long term goal to satisfy as much as 15 per cent of Europe’s electricity demand by 2050, using solar from the deserts in Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
“Concentrating solar power (CSP) is the most economical way to generate solar power, and has the longest track record of large scale commercial renewable electricity generation in deserts.” says Sven Moorman of Solar Millennium, a German based partner.
It’s not just about power. CSP can also be used for water desalination, suggesting potential routes to free agricultural ground drinking water and new jobs in the CSP plants. Such change offers sustainable paths out of poverty rather than one off aid.
“Top efficiency can be reached with CSP operating in the earth’s sunbelt, which includes all of the North African states as well as the Middle East.” confirms Moorman. “Since CSP uses direct sun energy, clear skies as in the deserts of North Africa and the Middle East are beneficial to the technology. On top of that, CSP plants can be used for sea water desalination, which makes it a perfect match for the desert environment.”
Too good to be true?
Nonetheless, actually delivering this could be tough. “In my opinion, the main challenges are political stability in African countries, building competence to accept and operate the technology, and transmission of electricity from Africa to Europe.” says Jaeger-Waldau.
“One of the suggestions is a super High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) backbone to transport solar electricity from the south to the north, wind energy from the coastal regions to the centre and hydro energy from the north and Alpine regions to wherever it is needed. Technically it would be possible, but the regulatory and financing issues have to be solved.”
“More than 20 years of experience with parabolic trough power plants in the Mojave Desert show that solar thermal power plants are able to deal with specific surrounding needs on desert sites.” argues Moorman. “Demanding environmental surroundings in deserts require specifically designed materials and construction.”
Among the biggest worries are security. Can companies risk billions of dollars only to see plants hijacked or destroyed by warring tribes or extremists? “Despite existing security concerns, high international investments in the oil sector are being made in the region.” points out Moorman.
“The MENA countries could also participate in the investments in solar and wind energy plants and hence develop a reinforced interest to keep these plants in operation.”
“It is more likely for parties that are not mutually dependent to become involved in conflicts with one another than parties that are interdependent.” he continues. “By 2050, the South Mediterranean region will have roughly the same population as Europe and hence similar energy requirements. Incorporating this region would be more valuable for Europe than isolating it. A joint effort towards a sustainable energy supply system is our goal.”
Energy exploitation
Another crucial point concerns energy equality. Exporting power to Europe while the very people whose land is being used remain energy poor is not an option, and would perpetuate historical exploitation of African nations:
“In my opinion, the Africans have to take ownership of the project and use solar energy for their economic development first, before we discuss exporting large quantities of electricity.” agrees Jaeger-Waldau. “Technology transfer and capacity building in Africa as well as the political will to use solar energy are some of the keys to that.”
“As can be seen in Europe, mutual networks and interconnectivity ensure peace and cohesion amongst countries.” reveals Moorman. “By creating educational and employment opportunities as well as improved general living conditions, Desertec can also serve as a sustainable development and peace programme.”
Here comes the sun
Either way, steps are already underway to make all this a reality. “The expansion of solar thermal power plant capacity in North Africa has commenced,” says Moorman. “Here, Solar Millennium is involved in the construction of Egypt’s first parabolic trough.”
“The parabolic trough plant, with a collector surface measuring 130000 square meters is being built close to the Egyptian capital and is due to for completion by mid 2010. Of course the countries in North Africa have to ensure their own solar power supply first. Then, in about ten years time, the export to European countries can start.”
Jaegar-Waldau is more guarded. In his opinion, a 30 to 40 year horizon is more realistic. “A secure and sustainable global energy supply and efficient climate protection measures are key to securing the wellbeing of present and future generations.” concludes Moorman. Just as long as Africa’s people and resources aren’t yet again pillaged in the process, he could be right.
What are your views? Not sure? Read the resources below for more information. Add your comment below. We welcome your thoughts and proposals. Not a Planetary Citizen? Sign up
Resources: For a more indepth analysis
The Union for the Mediterranean and the Mediterranean Solar Plan
The Solar Thermal Electricity Industry's Proposal for the Mediterranean Solar Plan
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