The Africa-Caribbean partnership is taking on a new dimension, driven by energy security concerns and the transition to clean energy. Against a backdrop of energy price volatility and growing dependence on imports, both regions are seeking to strengthen partnerships in infrastructure, renewables and energy financing.
According to data from the International Energy Agency, several Caribbean states import more than 80% of their primary energy, leaving them highly exposed to international market shocks and increasing their energy bills. At the same time, Africa accounts for nearly 60% of the world’s solar potential and around 39% of global renewable energy potential, according to international estimates, yet it still attracts only about 2% of global investment in green energy. This structural asymmetry creates opportunities for stronger cooperation in renewable energy, energy storage and smart grids.
“There are many opportunities between the two regions to truly integrate the energy sector, particularly energy access and energy infrastructure, in order to bridge the energy gap they face, as they are among the regions likely to be most affected by energy poverty worldwide. There is therefore a great deal of experience and expertise across both regions that can be mobilized to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector.”
Ken Mugambi, Group Managing Director, Trinity Energy – Kenya
Beyond the potential, experts also highlight financing challenges. In Africa, the annual financing gap for SMEs is estimated at more than 300 billion US dollars, limiting the ability of economies to structure large-scale energy projects.
“We need to make financial institutions understand that they must look at agriculture differently. Farmers must be respected. Fishermen must also be respected for what they do: they feed populations. We need to understand that their role is essential and, as governments, we must also find ways to intervene and bridge the gaps.”
Kyle Hodge, Minister of Economic Development and Agriculture – Anguilla
Faced with these constraints, both regions are turning to renewable energy as a driver of energy sovereignty. Africa is rapidly expanding its solar capacity, with a 60% increase in photovoltaic panel imports in one year, according to recent global market data.
“We have a lot of work to do to better understand our power as a collective. Because as a collective, if we can collaborate more, understand our shared needs, and be able to coordinate and communicate with the motherland, Africa.”
Kyle Hodge, Minister of Economic Development and Agriculture – Anguilla
In this context, Africa-Caribbean cooperation is emerging as a strategic lever for economic and energy transformation. With complementary resources, infrastructure needs and the imperative of a green transition, the two regions are laying the foundations for a partnership built on energy security, innovation and sustainable development.
