CAPE TOWN, Sept 30 (The African Portal) – The African Energy Chamber (AEC) on Tuesday launched its State of African Energy 2026 Outlook at the African Energy Week conference in Cape Town, offering analysis of the continent’s hydrocarbons, renewable energy, power and mining sectors as it seeks to attract investment.
The report, produced with S&P Global Commodity Insights, examines exploration, production, capital spending and decarbonisation trends, while highlighting opportunities in refining, infrastructure, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and critical minerals.
“Africa lacks the infrastructure density seen in Europe, but the opportunities here are significant. This study shows you where the market is and where the opportunities are,” AEC Senior Vice President Verner Ayukegba said.
S&P Global projected oil demand on the continent to rise from 11.4 million barrels per day (bpd) to 13.6 million bpd. The report also addresses Africa’s growing renewable energy sector, including expected power demand, off-grid solutions and financing challenges.
“The report covers everything from oil and gas to critical minerals. It is time to stop talking and move to investing,” said S&P Global Commodity Insights CEO Mark Eramo.
The AEC said the findings are intended to help investors navigate Africa’s evolving energy landscape as the continent pursues both fossil fuel development and a transition to clean energy.
