Energy leapfrogging might just propel Africa to become a world leader in the renewable energy sector. As many Africans opt for mobile phones instead of landlines, some think remote African villages might choose renewable energy over conventional methods creating the energy leapfrog method.
However, in order for Africa to take advantage and move forward, there are other obstacles that must be overcome. US Peace Corps volunteer in Togo Darren Legge said that renewable energy is unavailable to those that really need it as it is too costly.
But there are people who are making an effort to help underdeveloped areas attain basic levels of electricity through alternative/renewable energy resources. Claude Amouzou-Togo has spent the past three years installing solar energy systems in Kpalime, Togo. Amouzou-Togo averages about one customer per month, Legge noted, “We’re nowhere in sight of a tipping point when it becomes profitable without external aid.”
However, one large problem seen throughout Africa is a lack of patience. It must be realized that change is not going to happen overnight. Start-up costs are expensive and out of reach for many small African villages, but there are organizations that are working diligently trying to bring one community up to par at a time. Instead of looking forward to a possible energy leapfrog event, baby steps might offer more sustainability for the long run.