A typical EV consumes 10–20 kWh of electricity per day (assuming a daily driving distance of 50-80 km); comparable to running a central air conditioner for 5-10 hours or a water heater for 2-4 hours. This highlights the urgent need to strengthen Africa’s electrical grids, which are often characterised by instability and limited coverage, to meet the demands of a growing EV market.
Status of Grid Capacity in Africa
Many African nations struggle with unreliable electrical grids, frequent outages, and insufficient coverage, particularly in rural areas. This poses a major hurdle to widespread EV adoption, as consistent and reliable power sources are essential for charging.
In early 2024, Ethiopia became the first country to ban the import of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, effectively compelling citizens to transition to EVs. However, with less than half the population having access to electricity, the country’s grid infrastructure remains inadequate for mass EV adoption. Despite this, in February 2025, Ethio Telecom unveiled an ultra-fast EV charging hub in Addis Ababa, capable of simultaneously charging up to 32 electric vehicles. The hub features eight 600kW chargers that can fully charge compatible vehicles within 15 minutes.
While such projects mark important progress, they also underscore the urgent need for grid expansion and modernisation to support future EV infrastructure at scale.
Grid Management and Decentralised Energy Solutions
To reduce strain on existing grids, African nations are exploring smart grid technologies and demand-response programs to optimise energy distribution. These innovations aim to ensure efficient EV charging without overburdening the power network.
One example is the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP), a collaborative initiative among 11 East African nations working to interconnect their electricity grids. This effort will facilitate cross-border energy trading and enhance grid stability, a crucial factor in supporting widespread EV adoption.
At the same time, decentralised energy solutions are gaining momentum, particularly through renewable energy projects. Solar-powered charging stations and battery storage systems offer reliable alternatives, especially in off-grid areas. In Wolmaransstad, South Africa, charging company CHARGE recently opened its first off-grid, renewably powered EV charging station.
Similarly, in Uganda, the Ituka Solar Power Station – a 24 MW solar power plant currently under construction – is expected to be able to provide a stable power supply for EV charging stations once completed. Such initiatives highlight how localised renewable energy projects can strengthen the EV ecosystem in regions with unreliable grid connections.
EVs Charging Ahead in Africa
While grid capacity and reliability remain major challenges for Africa’s EV transition, innovative solutions, renewable energy projects, and strategic investments offer a viable path forward. By expanding smart grid initiatives and embracing decentralised energy systems, African nations can develop a more resilient power infrastructure to support EV growth.
Additionally, coordinated policy efforts and investment initiatives – such as financing for renewable-powered charging networks – will be essential in building a sustainable and scalable EV ecosystem across the continent.
Reference List
https://cleantechnica.com/2025/02/16/ethio-telecom-launches-ultra-fast-ev-charging-hub-in-addis-ababa/
https://www.africaintelligence.com/eastern-africa-and-the-horn/2025/01/27/from-ethiopia-to-tanzania-the-common-electricity-market-sparks-envy,110367407-art
https://www.power-technology.com/news/uganda-breaks-ground-on-ituka-project-joining-africas-solar-revolution/?cf-view
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