USTDA seeks Power Africa proposals

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USDTA) is accepting proposals for power projects that will help advance the ambitions of Power Africa.

Power Africa is an initiative launched in 2013 by President Barack Obama to improve electricity access throughout Africa as a means of simulating economic growth and development on the continent. The program will invest in renewable and gas-fired power production, grid modernization and energy efficiency. In doing so, Power Africa expects to connect private and public resources to create 60 million new electrical connections by 2030, tapping into 30,000 MW of additional power.

The White House estimates the program, if successful, would double power access in Africa. According to World Bank statistics, as little as 5.1 percent of the population in some African countries has access to electricity. Even the most connected African countries still see 35 percent or more of people without access. Estimates from the International Energy Agency suggest universal access will cost more than $300 billion.

USDTA is the agency tasked with carrying out the Power Africa agenda by managing the specific projects that compose the overall project.

Energy projects must be sponsored by or affiliated with an organization based in sub-Saharan Africa. Proposals can be submitted online to the USTDA until Feb. 19 at ustda.gov/proposals.