The role of nationally-determined contributions in fulfilling energy related SDGs in Sub-Saharan Africa 

Written by Britta Rennkamp (ACDI senior researcher), this note explores how nationally-determined contributions can help African countries advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in the area of sustainable energy. It shows the great need for sustainable development outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa leveraged through climate action, and that technological solutions are available. Indeed, costs are declining and renewable energy technologies are becoming increasingly affordable. The challenge of leveraging the desired SDG outcomes now depends on the incentives and policy design. Policies and measures will need to be inclusive and managed in ways that the desired beneficiaries will be able to access and use these technologies to reap developmental benefits.