Green Curses: Renewable Energy and the Potential for Conflict in Africa

Renewable energy consumption and production are on the rise across countries in Africa. While the continent is projected to remain dependent on fossil fuels for much of its electricity generation in the coming years, a green energy transition has undoubtedly started on the continent. Yet, there is reason to be cautious about the consequences of the regional and global energy revolutions for African politics, economics, and societies. In this policy brief, we explore how renewable energy and green technology can be linked to different conflict trajectories through a “green resource curse.”