After the commotion caused by the project of the large African green wall, the third most extensive continent faces the biggest challenge in its history: billion liters converted into energy. Africa It houses the greatest incredible Hydro -Electric potential, according to a report published in June 2022 by the International Hydroelectric Energy Association (IHA).
It is a non -profit organization based on the initiative of the UNESCO To promote sustainable development with Hydro -Electric Energy. The estimated potential is 474 Gigawatt (GW) compared to 73 GW in Europe275 GW and South America387 GW and North and Central America359 GW and Asia Eastern and Pacific Y 355 GW and South and Central – Asia.
“The hydroelectric potential of Africa It exceeds the current question and medium term of the continent, ”said the association, warning that the value of the electricity generated by hydroelectric power stations remains one of the sources of renewable energy More affordable.
Africa, in the light of the most important challenge: utilizing are hydroelectric energy to the maximum
The Congo Democratic Republic (RDC) It will soon start with one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects: the cancellation of the Great Inga Dam. This dam is appreciated at $ 80,000 million and promises to generate a change in the energy sector of the country and the future of the continent.
He has the potential to be in the world’s largest hydroelectric factory one day. What makes the project so important is that it will benefit from the power of Congo Riverone of the most powerful of the TierraAnd will transform that natural power into energy to deliver millions of houses and industries.
Is in the cataract Inga there Congo River And will consist of a series of dams and reservoirs that are connected to each other. The route map is considering 6 Hydro -Electric plants that together will exceed every existing mega project in the world. The production capacity will be much greater than that of the plants of Three Gorges, and Chinaone Itaipú, in Brazil.
It is planned to generate 40,000 megawatts energySo it looks like a solution for the energy crisis that more than 50% of the population of Africa. Areas such as Nigeria, South Africa and Egypt They are already interested in the purchase of the energy produced, making the dam an engine of economic inclusion.
Expectations about the Grote Inga de Africa Dam
One of the strongest expectations of the Great Inga Dam It could certainly put an end to the energy insulation of various African countries. Currently, a large number of countries experience constant blackouts that prevent their economic growth. With the appearance of this dam, millions of people have access to electricity.
This will generate the impetus of existing industries and companies, as well as the proliferation of new technological companies.
Electricity produced by the Dam will be distributed by a huge electricity grid, which melted the start of a new era of cooperation between neighboring areas. Energy Export will open the door to international investments, so that the position of the Congo Democratic Republic As leader of the energy sector of Africa.
Estimated with an initial value at £ 64 billion, Congo Democratic Republic looking for support for global institutions such as World bank and the African Development Bank. It also urges private investors to be part of this mega project. However, there is some concern about the real costs that can exceed $ 155,000.
What happens to the most ambitious project in Africa?
There are expectations, but also fears and controversies. It will be necessary to move more than 30,000 people to bring this initiative in front, a scenario that evokes doubts about human compensation and rights. Another controversial point is the impact on the local ecosystem, including the exclusive species of the valley of Bundi.
The future of Great Inga Dam by Africa It will depend on its implementation. As Success Crown, it will be a milestone in the history of the energy. Otherwise it will be remembered as a frustrated dream. In addition to this context, Africa has already started the largest mobilization of history.