Abstract
Energy transition is at the centre of just transition framework. This fact is recognized by many African nations. For Africa, the idea of just energy transition in multidimensional and multilayer. Its relevance to Africa is not just to pursue a decarbonated fossil-free energy system or to achieve a climate action, but rather it is also to attend to the multiple deprivations in energy matter in the continent, to satisfy the needs for growth and to reap from the benefits of a just energy transition. Pursuing a just transition means resolving the large energy gap in access to electricity and clean cooking fuel, achieving less carbon intensive transport system and developing green energy (transition) minerals abundant in the continent. Furthermore, in recent times, there have been increasing discoveries of oil and gas in some African countries. For the new and old fossil fuel resource owners, energy transition presents a unique scenario that requires due recognition within the context of justice.
The objectives of the paper are to explore the necessity for a just transition in the continent, interrogate current efforts at transitioning to green energy in just manner and determine the gaps therein and to reframe the just transition agenda in a manner that will protect continental development interest, enhance energy wellbeing and recognise energy transition sensitive resources (sectors), and people that may suffer in the transition process.
In attending to the objectives, the following issues will be interrogated:
- The concept of energy transition and energy transition index
- Imperatives of a just energy transition in Africa
- Africa’s efforts at achieving a just energy transition
- Measuring the progress; the energy transition index
- Africa’s energy resources/minerals and the challenge of transition
- Reframing the just energy transition agenda for Africa
Keywords: Just Transition, Energy Resources, Transition Minerals, Index, Framework