The Problem with Solar Energy in Africa

The Saharan Desert and North Africa are highlighted as vast, underutilized energy resources with the solar power potential to supply the entire world. A single solar panel in Algeria can produce three times the electricity compared to one in Germany. Historically impoverished nations could experience an economic renaissance by harnessing this power. The text explains the theoretical energy generation capabilities based on the size of solar farms and the potential to meet Europe's energy needs. However, it also outlines the challenges faced in making this vision a reality, such as the lack of interconnections between North Africa and Europe, the high costs of infrastructure, and the historical failures in executing such plans.

The paragraph delves into the complexities and costs associated with expanding the electrical interconnections between North Africa and Europe. It discusses the limitations of the current two interconnections and the plans for a third. The narrative explores the financial and technical challenges of establishing the necessary infrastructure for high-voltage transmission, both for short distances using alternating current (AC) and for long distances using direct current (DC). It also touches on the Desertec initiative, a German-led plan for a massive investment in solar energy generation and transmission across North Africa and the Middle East, and the considerations for using different transmission technologies based on distance.

This section contrasts concentrated solar power (CSP) with photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, emphasizing the operational differences and economic challenges of CSP. It describes an existing CSP facility in Morocco, the Noor complex, and its various technologies. The text addresses the high costs of CSP compared to the rapidly decreasing costs of PV panels, leading to a market where CSP struggles to compete. Additionally, it mentions the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) and the need for a metric that includes storage costs for a fair comparison. The paragraph also discusses the land and water requirements for CSP plants, the risks of investing in volatile regions, and the historical and environmental concerns related to foreign investment in African energy resources.

The final paragraph suggests that while large-scale projects like Desertec may not be feasible, there is potential for solar energy development in Africa, led by Morocco as an example. It outlines Morocco's geographical and political advantages, including its proximity to Spain, stable government, and abundant solar and wind resources. The text encourages a focus on local infrastructure to serve local needs first and then export excess energy. It also highlights the importance of smart grid technology and the growing demand for experts in algorithms and coding to manage complex grid systems. The paragraph concludes with a promotion for learning algorithms and coding through Brilliant.org and mentions other educational content available for further exploration.