ALN, Africa’s leading alliance of integrated law firms, made a substantial impact at the highly anticipated 2023 Africa Energy Forum, which took place in Nairobi, Kenya at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre on 22-23 June. As a key participant and sponsor of this prestigious event, ALN showcased its energy sector expertise and contributed to shaping Africa’s sustainable energy future.
Powering Africa’s Energy Future: ALN’s Commitment to Sustainable Solutions
Under the theme “aef. In one place,” the Africa Energy Forum serves as a dynamic platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to converge and discuss strategies, innovations, and collaborations driving the continent’s energy transition. ALN’s presence at the forum reinforced its commitment to providing comprehensive legal solutions and supporting the development of sustainable energy projects across Africa.
Africa’s Green Transition. Where will the Power Come from?
ALN hosted an engaging and thought-provoking interactive panel session titled “Africa’s Green Transition. Where will the Power Come from?” during the 2023 Africa Energy Forum. The session delved into crucial questions surrounding the continent’s energy transition. Participants explored the dilemma faced by state off-takers, examining whether they will step up to the challenge or be overwhelmed by the age-old question: if independent power producers build the generation and state off-takers guarantee the offtake, will the demand follow?
Additionally, discussed the potential implications of African governments allowing private offtake and distribution. They debated whether this approach could inadvertently create two classes of consumers, with some having the financial means to bypass state off-takers while others are left reliant on poorly managed, insolvent state corporations.
Distinguished Speakers and Insightful Discussions
The session was moderated by Amyn Mussa, Partner at ALN Kenya | Anjarwalla & Khanna, who expertly guided the discussion. It featured an industry-distinguished lineup of speakers who brought a wealth of expertise and diverse perspectives to the table:
1. Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria – Director General, Energy & Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Kenya
2. Lisa Pinsley – Partner, Head of Middle East & Africa, Energy Infrastructure – Actis
3. Wale Shonibare – Director, Energy Financial Solutions, Policy & Regulations – African Development Bank Group
4. Adam Kendall – Partner, McKinsey & Company
5. Nadia Rhazi Khawar – Managing Director, Business Development in the Office of Structured Finance and Insurance, U.S. International Development Finance Corporation.
6. Christopher North – Partner & Co-Head, Climate Investing, Helios Investment Partners
These industry leaders contributed valuable insights and experiences, shedding light on critical aspects of Africa’s green transition and shaping the discourse surrounding sustainable energy solutions.
ALN Energising Africa’s Energy Landscape
Renowned for its on-the-ground expertise and productive relationships with regional regulators and policymakers, ALN’s Energy Practice team remains at the forefront of assisting developers and operators of energy projects. The team excels in structuring equity and debt arrangements, negotiating key project agreements, securing financing, and navigating government support measures.
Innovating for a Greener Future
“The 2023 Africa Energy Forum provides an unparalleled opportunity for ALN to showcase its commitment to excellence and innovation in the energy sector,” says Oludare Senbore, Partner at ALN Nigeria. “Africa’s energy landscape is at a transformative crossroads, presenting immense opportunities for sustainable development. By harnessing the power of renewable energy and leveraging innovative financing models, we can pave the way for a greener, more prosperous future.”
Amyn Mussa, Partner at ALN Kenya, adds, “Collaboration and knowledge sharing are essential drivers for Africa’s energy transition. Through partnerships between governments, private sector entities, and communities, we can accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions and empower Africa to become a global leader in renewable energy.”
Join ALN in Shaping Africa’s Energy Future
ALN was thrilled to be part of the 2023 Africa Energy Forum, where it contributed insights and collaborated with industry leaders and stakeholders to drive sustainable energy solutions across Africa. We thank all the participants and attendees who visited ALN’s meeting room space at the Africa Energy Forum, where they engaged in lively discussions, networked with legal industry experts, and explored potential collaborations.