The slow progress of utility-supplied electricity has undoubtedly affected socio-economic progress in these countries. Urbanised populations are growing at an astounding rate in Africa, and infrastructure upgrades are far outpaced by demand.

This said, the opportunity for a more widely electrified future is on the horizon — and a greener one as well, with the potential to leapfrog dependence on fossil fuels.

Power shortages have spurred on incredible innovations and forward-thinking SMEs to provide household-level energy products, allowing consumers to bypass infrastructure that leaves millions in the dark.

Source: Business Daily