Expanding and strengthening renewable energy initiatives in Africa
Within the framework of the joint Africa-EU strategy, the African Union (AU)-EU high level policy dialogue (HLPD) on science, technology and innovation establishes long-term priorities for research and innovation policy. Climate change and energy sustainability are key focus areas. Among HLPD initiatives is the jointly funded AU-EU research and innovation (R&I) partnership on climate change and sustainable energy. Its flagship LEAP-RE(opens in new window) project on energy is promoting a cooperative ecosystem through joint funding calls, institutional twinning, peer-to-peer exchange, capacity-building activities, stakeholder forums and an online knowledge-sharing platform(opens in new window). In addition, science diplomacy links LEAP-RE to Mission 300(opens in new window), which aims to provide electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.
Augmenting impact within prioritised themes
“LEAP-RE has established a bi-continental co-funding mechanism through which African and European funding organisations set joint priorities and fund R&I projects that focus on achieving goals of mutual benefit,” explains Léonard Lévêque of LGI Sustainable Innovation(opens in new window) in France, LEAP-RE project coordinator. This initiative aims to reduce fragmentation by bringing together diverse stakeholders, including researchers, academic institutions, funding agencies and investors, policymakers, the private sector and local communities. The project covers seven priority themes. These comprise assessment of renewable energy sources (RES) and integration of RES in sustainable energy scenarios along with end-of-life and second‐life management and environmental impact of RES system components. Smart stand‐alone systems and smart grid systems for off-grid application are also included. In addition, processes and appliances for productive uses (agriculture, mobility and industry) as well as innovative solutions for priority domestic uses (clean cooking and cold chain) are funding themes. Finally, the production and utilisation of green hydrogen was added in 2025.
Projects and pilots in a participatory approach
Within the project duration, 31 projects(opens in new window) have been funded. An additional call was launched in 2025, and another is planned for 2026. “These projects represent early-stage technological innovations and pre-commercial solutions with strong potential for scaling up and market deployment,” notes Lévêque. For example, the SolChargE project is developing a modular, mobile solar charging solution for off-grid communities. Adaptable for stationary, mobile and electric vehicle applications, it supports clean mobility and reduces fossil fuel dependence. “Through a participatory and inclusive approach, funded projects also conduct renewable energy solution pilots with local communities to address their needs and priorities, aiming to foster socio-economic development and improve their quality of life,” adds Tinyiko Ntshongwana of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation(opens in new window) of the Republic of South Africa. The Geothermal Village project, for example, is introducing stand-alone geothermal energy systems to off-grid communities in East Africa, leveraging the region’s untapped geothermal resources.
Teamwork and training ensure engagement and sustainability
LEAP-RE facilitates technology transfer and knowledge sharing through institutional twinning, scientific outreach, peer-to-peer exchanges and clustering. Lévêque notes: “The project also focuses on local capacity building, ensuring that trained youth and community members can maintain and expand the systems, promoting long-term energy independence and economic growth.” LEAP-RE RESchools provide technical training and capacity building for researchers and students, and institutional twinning strengthens long-term partnerships between African and European institutions. In line with the European Commission’s Global Gateway(opens in new window) principle of equal partnerships, LEAP-RE prioritises collaboration, mutualisation, joint decision-making, and shared strategic and financial commitments between African and European partners. This teamwork is bearing fruit, bringing the best of European and African innovation together to address climate change and sustainable energy for the long term in Africa.