African Design Magazine March 2016 | Page 2

Editor’s view
Energy efficiency in Africa
For far too many in Africa, energy efficiency isn’t a concern. Poverty,
hunger, thirst, shelter and safety are at the forefront of their needs, and
generating renewable energy is a far off concern.

Yet between 2010 and 2040, it is estimated that Africa’s energy demand
will grow by 85 percent. While new power generation and associated
infrastructure are critical to bridging the gap between energy supply
and demand, the role of energy efficiency as a least-cost energy resource
is critical to reducing overall demand, decreasing the need for expensive
peak capacity, and allowing electricity supply to be expanded to meet
increasing demand in a timely, low-cost, and sustainable way.

Gregg Cocking

One example of energy efficiency making a difference is Ghana’s appliance labelling
program and associated regulations. These efforts have resulted in estimated peak energy
savings of over 120MW, and as a result, this program has displaced the need for $105
million in generation investment and reduced CO2 emissions by over 110 000 tons annually.

CREDITS

This issue of African Design Magazine, apart from showcasing our usual range of compelling
African and international projects, has a specific focus on energy efficiency in Africa. Enjoy
reading and sharing! #AfricanDesign.
Published by African Design Magazine
(Pty) Ltd, PO Box 9802, Edenglen,
Johannesburg, South Africa, 1613

Editorial
Gregg Cocking
Cell: [phone]
Email: gregg@africandesignmagazine.
com
Advertising
Lesley Shapiro
Cell: [phone]
Email: lesley@africandesignmagazine.
com

2

Cover photograph:
Cine Guimbi in Burkina Faso – read the
article on page 24

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