Sub-saharan Africa 'has promising biofuels future - with proper infrastructure'

30 September 2009

Infrastructure limitations could prevent Africa from realising its full potential as a biofuel production hub, business research and consulting firm Frost & Sullivan has warned.

Africa's climate and amount of available land make many of its countries perfect for this endeavour.

Indeed, the company reported that "many" agreements have already been made between organisations and out-growers.

Land has been invested in and pilot productions have been undertaken.

Frost & Sullivan estimated that the area's biofuel sector should see revenues of $26.9 million (£16.7 million) in 2009 - and this could reach $229.9 million in 2017.

"Globally, growing awareness of environmental issues and finite energy sources has led to heightened investment in renewable energy," company analyst Kholofelo Maele noted.

In related news, the director general of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation Dr Kandeh Yumkella has urged Africa to invest in clean energy in order to participate in the "green industrial revolution".

He told Capital Business magazine this would not only spur development but help fight climate change.

Category: Energy