Electricity is crucial in most production processes, and the inability to access a reliable energy source deters foreign investment and limits the development of domestic economic activities. However, the African continent lacks adequate energy infrastructure, and severely underperforms in the provision of power in a global context.

Furthermore, actual energy production figures for sub-Saharan Africa are likely to be substantially lower than the theoretical capacity due to inadequate maintenance, outmoded equipment, fuel shortages, as well as general inefficiencies. This report examines Africa's electricity output in detail.