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Coal remains a major pillar of Africa’s electricity supply, providing critical baseload power across several markets despite the continent’s growing investments in renewable energy and natural gas.
As countries navigate rising energy demands, industrial expansion and global uncertainties, the conversation around coal is increasingly shifting from a simple transition debate to a broader question of energy security and economic resilience.
The issue will feature prominently at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, where the Power Africa Today conference will host discussions on the future of coal and cleaner coal technologies. The session will bring together government officials, utilities, investors and technology providers to examine how African nations can improve existing coal infrastructure while reducing emissions through innovation.
Southern Africa remains at the centre of the coal conversation, with countries including South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana relying heavily on the resource for electricity generation. For decades, coal has provided dependable power for energy-intensive sectors such as mining and manufacturing, supporting economic activity and industrial growth.
Several countries are now expanding or modernising their coal capacity. Zimbabwe is developing its estimated 552 million tonnes of coal reserves to strengthen domestic supply and support growth in the mining sector.
Zambia is reviving plans for a 300 MW coal-fired power project as it seeks more reliable electricity for its copper industry. South Africa has also continued efforts to strengthen its coal fleet, with Eskom commissioning Unit 6 at the Kusile Power Station, adding 800 MW to the national grid.
At the same time, industry players are pursuing cleaner approaches to reduce coal’s environmental impact. South Africa’s SANEDI is advancing the Coal CO2-X RDI programme, while Coaltech is supporting research focused on emissions reduction and efficiency improvements. Eskom and Exxaro Resources are also working together on carbon reduction technologies.
Across the continent, companies are exploring ways to make coal use more sustainable. In Botswana, Shumba Energy is developing what could become the country’s first clean-coal independent power producer project, alongside broader efforts to maximise coal resources.
African Energy Chamber Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk says cleaner coal technologies can help countries balance reliable electricity supply with environmental goals.
“Energy security and emissions reduction are not mutually exclusive objectives,” Ayuk says, adding that cleaner coal solutions can support industrialisation while reducing environmental impacts.
As Africa pursues a diversified energy future, coal is expected to remain part of the continent’s power strategy, with policymakers and industry leaders seeking a balance between affordability, reliability and sustainability.
