In 2022, for the first time in many decades, the number of people in the world without access to electricity increased. The effects of the coronavirus pandemic coupled with high energy prices have taken their toll, and globally the number of people without access to electricity has increased by about 20 million to a total of 774 million people. Africa is still among the hardest hit continents in terms of access to energy. Could renewable energy be the solution to wider energy access in Africa?

Deployment of renewable energy can provide enormous benefits for local populations and economies, creating value for both the natural environment and society. This is especially true when compared to fossil energy sources and the traditional use of biomass. Research on the impacts of renewables emphasises their multiple socio-economic benefits, far beyond their potential to mitigate climate change. Deployment of renewables creates employment opportunities and contributes to growth in gross domestic product. The energy transition is projected to result in a global net gain in employment, with more jobs created by ramping up renewable capacity than lost by phasing out fossil energy.

Jordan is among the most dependent countries on the import of energy resources (mainly oil and natural gas) from abroad in the MENA region. Therefore, the import of energy represents a large burden on the state budget. Energy demand associated with rapid population growth is increasing by 3% every year. Booming population also adversely impacts the already strained water resources. Jordan is among the world's most water scarce countries. To address these challenges, Jordan needs to increase investment in renewable energy sources while reducing overall energy and water consumption through measures to increase efficiency. When it comes to electro-mobility, Jordan is considered a pioneer in the region.

The Kingdom of Morocco's approach to renewable energy sources (RES) is exemplary, especially thanks to its solar projects, some of which are among the largest in the world. Renewables account for about two-fifths of all installed electricity generation capacity, and the kingdom is globally lauded for its steps towards decarbonisation. At the same time, Morocco covers up to 90% of its energy needs by importing fossil fuels, mainly coal and oil, from third countries, which ranks it first in North Africa. In order to ensure the country's energy security and reduce dependence on imports, Morocco plans to continue investing in renewable sources, planning to be the leader of renewable energy deployment in the MENA region.