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K2 Management today launched a report titled; Pre-construction projects: The battle to reduce uncertainty and improve business case bankability, in partnership with specialist insurance broker and risk consultant, JLT Speciality, at Africa Energy Forum, which kicked off today in Mauritius.
The report identifies trends and developments in the development and pre-construction phases of projects in the fast-growing renewables sector, based on data gathered from some of the most innovative wind and solar projects in Africa and globally.
The report highlights the strong investment demand for renewables projects in Africa, particularly in relation to the amount of capacity which has so far been tendered by the continent’s governments. At the end of 2016, 102 renewable energy projects were selected under South Africa’s REIPPPP, procuring a total of 6,376 MW. However, 460 bids were received, which equates to a total of 26.7 GW of capacity. In 2017, Botswana called for an expression of interest for a proposed 100 MW solar power project, to which 166 responses were received.
“It is apparent from the report’s findings that the success and confidence in the renewables sector hinges on clear policy signals, governance and regulation; and on enabling an adequate framework that is consistent across the continent to accelerated renewables deployment. Unlocking investment, both locally and internationally, will kick-start economic growth and support development in the region,” says Hebren James, Country Director at K2 Management, South Africa.
Moving regulatory goalposts can affect investment
Political challenges in South Africa stalled the renewables market for 2.5 years, but a switch in leadership saw the market begin to flow again almost as quickly as it stalled. This is a prime example of how political factors can impact not only projects but the whole industry.
Despite attractive rates of return, investors can still be preoccupied with political risk, including changes to regulatory and tax regimes, currency non-recoverability and tariff changes. These concerns can hold investment back and in markets like Africa, where progress is essential after recent delays, this could have a significant effect on the market’s future.
“Renewables is playing an important role in countries including South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco and Egypt, who are leading the effort to incorporate renewable energy into their countries electricity mixes. Some other African countries continue to set ambitious renewable energy targets with a growing number following suit,” says Vanessa Anniss from JLT Specialty's renewable energy practice.
Many African leaders have seen the opportunity that renewables present for their nations, and have announced national energy plans and targets to reflect this vision. In particular, South Africa recently announced plans to open a new round of bidding in November 2018, leveraging renewables to facilitate a cost-effective transformation to a more secure and sustainable power future.
“A clear message from the top needs to come in the form of non-discriminatory market access, allowing for both private and community-based investors to engage effectively in the energy transition. This will open up the market in terms of investment, as well as benefit economic growth through a supply of competitively-priced clean and sustainable energy,” concludes James.