Energy

After being dependent on energy imports to balance its insufficient domestic generation for a long time, Djibouti is now looking to completely transition its electricity production towards domestic renewable energy. Geothermal, wind and solar projects are being implemented, with the goal of reaching 100% renewable energy generation by 2020. Not only would this help diversify the economy by developing a new industry, it will also support the creation of related ones, such as domestic light manufacturing, by providing low-cost energy. However, improvements in energy generation and distribution also need to be framed through the benefits they can bring to domestic businesses. High electricity costs remain one of the barriers most frequently cited by private sector operators, and one that could be addressed through more efficient generation and distribution methods. This chapter contains an interview with Yonis Ali Guedi, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.