The Development of Chinese Investments in the Renewable Energy Sector in African Countries

This study aims to explore and analyze the nature of Chinese investments in the renewable energy sector in African countries and to identify the various challenges and structural obstacles facing its development. Among the key findings of the study is the doubling of Chinese investments in renewable energy in African countries in recent years, thanks to China's massive expansion in production capacities and the strong presence of its companies, which possess a wide range of green technology applications, along with relatively low costs, especially in the fields of solar and wind energy. This results in maximizing the economic benefits for both China and African countries. On the other hand, the limited access to private and foreign financing, the underdeveloped infrastructure and networks, and the unstable financial and economic conditions have contributed to accelerating and strengthening Sino-African cooperation. This has been achieved by redirecting the Belt and Road Initiative — a global infrastructure development project — to focus on clean energy and green infrastructure, thereby facilitating access to funding for renewable energy projects. The cooperation between the Chinese public and private sectors helps to speed up the implementation of large-scale renewable energy projects across the continent, in addition to leveraging the advantages of exploiting Africa’s rare vital minerals, which are essential for technological industries and clean energy.