Definition
Energy security refers to the ability of a country or region to ensure a reliable, continuous and affordable supply of energy, while limiting its exposure to external shocks—whether economic, geopolitical, climatic or technical.
It is built on several key pillars: diversification of energy sources, resilient infrastructure, cost control, and stable political and regulatory frameworks.
Context and Use in the Energy Sector
The concept of energy security is central to national energy planning, corporate strategy and investment decisions by international lenders and development partners.
It plays a critical role in:
- defining the energy mix
- infrastructure choices (power plants, grids, storage)
- oil and gas import/export policies
- managing risks linked to price volatility
Globally, energy security has become a major strategic issue, reinforced by geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions and climate-related constraints.
Application and Specificities in Africa
In Africa, energy security has distinct characteristics. The continent combines:
- abundant natural resources
- high dependence on imports in many countries
- insufficient energy infrastructure
- rapidly growing demand, driven by demographics and urbanisation
For many African states, the challenge is not only ensuring supply continuity, but also expanding access to energy, which remains limited for a significant share of the population.
As a result, energy security in Africa is inseparable from economic development, social stability and national sovereignty.
Economic and Political Stakes
Energy security directly affects:
- national trade balances
- economic competitiveness
- the fiscal sustainability of energy subsidies
- political stability
Countries heavily dependent on imported petroleum products are particularly exposed to international price shocks. Conversely, producing countries must manage revenue volatility, resource governance and economic diversification.
Politically, energy remains a highly sensitive sector, often at the centre of trade-offs between social demands, budgetary constraints and international pressures.
Energy Security and the Energy Transition
Contrary to a common assumption, the energy transition does not automatically guarantee stronger energy security.
In Africa, the integration of renewable energy can enhance the resilience of energy systems, provided that:
- power grids are strengthened
- storage solutions are developed
- long-term, sustainable financing is secured
Africa’s energy security therefore depends on a pragmatic and balanced approach, combining hydrocarbons, renewables and decentralised solutions adapted to local realities.
African Case Studies
- West Africa: strong dependence on fuel imports and high vulnerability to global price fluctuations.
- Southern Africa: persistent tensions linked to power supply reliability and ageing generation infrastructure.
- East Africa: development of natural gas and geothermal projects to strengthen energy autonomy.
- North Africa: diversification of energy sources and rapid expansion of renewables to secure domestic demand and export capacity.
Key Takeaways
- Energy security is a major strategic issue for Africa.
- It goes beyond supply continuity to include access, affordability and system resilience.
- Abundant natural resources do not automatically ensure energy security.
- A balanced mix of hydrocarbons and renewables is essential.
- Energy security is a prerequisite for economic development and political stability.
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