Tackling Africa’s Zombie Energy Systems 

A new perspective paper by researchers at Clean Air Task Force (CATF) highlights that Africa’s energy transition is at a crossroads, with immense potential for sustainable growth hampered by an overlooked crisis: Zombie Energy Systems (ZES). These outdated, inefficient, and environmentally harmful energy infrastructures persist despite being obsolete, draining resources, perpetuating energy poverty, and stalling development. Rooted in colonial legacies, economic challenges, and policy deficiencies, ZES—including dilapidated grids, aged appliances, and inefficient vehicles among others—present a formidable barrier to Africa’s cleaner energy ambitions. They call for a reevaluation of energy policies and investment strategies in Africa, tailored to the continent’s and country-specific challenges and opportunities. 

What are Zombie Energy Systems? 

The term “Zombie Energy Systems” might conjure images of the undead, but in this context, it refers to obsolete energy assets that linger despite being dysfunctional and environmentally damaging. These systems can be found on both the demand and supply sides of the energy system and they encompass systems such as inefficient power plants, poorly maintained grids, and outdated household appliances. For example, Nigeria’s outdated grid, South Africa’s aging coal plants and Kariba hydroelectric dam—often fail to meet energy demands while consuming significant resources for maintenance. Similarly, second-hand appliances imported from Europe, like refrigerators and air conditioners, exacerbate energy inefficiencies, straining already weak electricity grids. Figure 1 shows the transmission and distribution (T&D) losses across countries in Africa compared to international standards. African countries’ T&D systems suffer from some of the highest energy losses globally. 

The broader implications of Zombie Energy Systems 

Zombie Energy Systems hinder Africa’s twin goals of socio-economic development and environmental sustainability. Outdated power plants consume resources but fail to deliver reliable electricity. In Nigeria, for instance, only 7.5 GW of the 16 GW installed generation capacity can be transmitted due to a weak grid, leaving millions without reliable energy. This inefficiency extends to household appliances; many low-income households use energy-intensive, second-hand devices, increasing electricity costs and emissions. In the transportation sector, over 85% of vehicles in Africa are second-hand, emitting significantly more pollutants than modern vehicles. The reliance on outdated fossil fuels-based vehicles worsens urban air quality and entrenches dependency on non-sustainable resources. 

Addressing ZES in Africa could save substantial amount of investment and reduce emissions. Efforts to boost energy efficiency in Africa, led by the African Energy Efficiency Strategy (AEES) under AFREC, demonstrate the potential for significant CO₂ reductions. The strategy targets a 50% increase in energy productivity by 2050, aiming for a sustainable, inclusive energy system that supports environmental sustainability, economic growth, and universal energy access. Notable national programs include Ghana’s appliance labeling initiative, which has saved over 120 MW of energy, avoided $105 million in infrastructure costs, and reduced annual CO₂ emissions by 110,000 tons. In South Africa, Eskom’s efficiency incentives have delivered over 3 GW of energy savings in a decade, equivalent to five 600 MW power plants, significantly cutting CO₂ emissions. These initiatives highlight the potential implications and benefits of addressing ZES in advancing Africa’s low-carbon transition. 

Why do Zombie Energy Systems persist? 

The persistence of ZES in Africa stems from: 

1. Colonial Legacy: Many energy infrastructures in Africa were designed to support resource extraction rather than broad-based development. Post-independence, these systems were repurposed for electrification without sufficient planning and upgrades. 

2. Economic Constraints: High maintenance costs and limited funding for modernization make decommissioning or upgrading ZES daunting for already overburdened African governments. 

3. Policy Gaps: Weak regulatory frameworks and governance issues allow inefficiencies to fester. For instance, corruption in Nigeria’s energy sector has diverted billions meant for infrastructure development. 

4. Socio-Economic Barriers: The affordability gap prevents households and businesses from adopting energy-efficient technologies, perpetuating reliance on outdated systems. 

A roadmap to address Zombie Energy Systems 

Addressing ZES in Africa requires a holistic approach that balances infrastructure upgrades with development goals. Here are actionable steps: 

1. Comprehensive System Assessment: Governments must evaluate existing energy assets to identify zombie infrastructure. This process should prioritize decommissioning the most inefficient systems and upgrading viable assets.  

2. Invest in Modern and Decentralized Systems: Africa’s abundant solar and wind resources can enable decentralized energy solutions like mini-grids when and where economically viable. Countries like Kenya have successfully adopted mini-grid projects to expand rural electrification, complementing and reducing dependence on inefficient central grids. 

3. Promote Energy Efficiency: Subsidies for energy-efficient appliances, combined with stringent standards, can reduce energy consumption. Ghana’s appliance labeling program has saved over 120 MW of electricity, avoiding $105 million in generation costs. 

4. Strengthen Governance and Regulation: Robust regulatory frameworks are critical for utility reform. Advanced metering infrastructure, as implemented in parts of South Africa, can reduce electricity theft and non-payment, improving utility financial health. 

5. Mobilize Investments: International financing mechanisms and domestic capital through public-private partnerships can support ZES reforms. Tunisia’s PROSOL program, which subsidizes solar water heaters, exemplifies innovative financing to modernize energy systems. 

6. Build Local Capacity: Training programs in modern energy technologies can create a skilled workforce to manage modern systems. Initiatives like Kenya’s Renewable Energy Training Program equip technicians to implement sustainable solutions. 

As Africa’s population and energy demand continue to rise, addressing ZES will help prevent significant delays in achieving reliable and equitable energy systems. However, these recommendations are not exhaustive—there is no one-size-fits-all approach for the entire continent. Each African country will need a customized approach to tackling ZES, one that is tailored to its unique opportunities and challenges.