The African Energy Commission (AFREC), a specialized agency of the African Union Commission, is set to host the first-ever African Energy Efficiency Conference in Addis Ababa next month. The high-level summit aims to cement energy efficiency's role as the "first fuel" for driving Africa’s sustainable development and climate action.
The crucial event, taking place at the African Union Headquarters from December 10–11, 2025, will gather African ministers of energy, senior policymakers, business leaders, financiers, and international development partners.
A major highlight of the conference will be the official launch of the African Energy Efficiency Alliance (AEEA). This continental platform is designed to promote crucial knowledge sharing, advocacy, technology transfer, and essential investment in energy-saving solutions across the continent. The Alliance is seen as a practical step toward addressing Africa's severe energy poverty.
The conference comes at a critical time when Africa faces immense energy challenges:
- Access Gap: Over 600 million people currently lack access to electricity.
- Health Crisis: One billion people still rely on polluting cooking fuels, with serious health and environmental consequences.
- Rising Demand: Rapid population growth, urbanization, and industrialization are continuously pushing energy demand higher.
By focusing on energy efficiency—a recognized, cost-effective pathway to reduce emissions and expand access—the participants hope to unlock inclusive development across the continent. Confirmed and expected attendees include representatives from the African Development Bank, the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the European Union, and various UN agencies.
