Assessing National Energy Policies Promoting Renewables in West African Cities: Progress, Challenges, and Recommendations

The accelerating urbanization of West Africa presents both a challenge and an opportunity for sustainable energy development. With cities accounting for the bulk of energy consumption in the region, the transition from fossil fuel dependency to renewable energy is essential for achieving energy security, climate resilience, and sustainable growth. This paper critically assesses national energy policies that promote renewable energy in selected West African countries namely Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire with a particular focus on their impact and implementation in urban areas. The study adopts a comparative policy analysis approach, examining legal frameworks, national energy strategies, implementation mechanisms, and city-level applications. While all countries under review have established renewable energy policies or legal frameworks, findings reveal a significant disconnect between national ambitions and urban execution. Common challenges include limited financing for urban renewable projects, weak institutional coordination between national and local governments, inadequate technical capacity, and a lack of city-specific renewable energy targets. However, the research also highlights emerging progress, such as mini-grid deployment in Nigerian cities, solar rooftop programs in Accra, and Dakar’s steps toward electrifying public transport using green energy sources. The paper argues that strengthening the role of city governments, improving policy coherence, and enhancing public-private partnerships are critical to scaling renewable energy solutions in West African cities. It recommends greater decentralization of energy governance, increased investment in urban renewable infrastructure, and harmonization of regional policies through ECOWAS frameworks. Ultimately, aligning national energy goals with urban development strategies will be vital for an inclusive and sustainable energy transition across the region. This research contributes to the broader discourse on energy policy in sub-Saharan Africa by highlighting the urban dimension of renewable energy planning, offering practical insights for policymakers, development partners, and stakeholders committed to a green and equitable energy future.