All articles tagged with #energy access
Africa holds 7.2% of global oil reserves and dominates critical mineral production, yet 560 million people lack electricity. While Libya and Nigeria hold most oil, the DRC and South Africa supply key battery materials. Access varies drastically, from universal coverage in six nations to just 5.4% in South Sudan.
In Tembisa near Johannesburg, residents rent portable solar batteries (300–1,000 Wh) for about 5 rand per plug to power phones and small devices, offering an affordable energy option for those without reliable power or funds for solar panels. The New York Times spotlights Anselmo Munghabe’s tin-shack barber shop where customers line up to charge devices, illustrating how a low-cost rental model can expand energy access and foster small-scale entrepreneurship.