Thousands of houses in rural Angola that previously relied on expensive diesel generators or had no power at all are now receiving energy thanks to a new 150 MW solar installation.

It's a powerful picture of transformation, and it's one that's spreading throughout Africa. Wind turbines are whirling and solar panels are sprouting from Zambia to Mauritania, indicating a silent change in the continent's energy landscape.

Perhaps more startling, though, is the source of a large portion of this impetus. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, are investing quickly in Africa's future renewable energy. Equipped with substantial financial reserves, decades of energy experience, and a strategic vision, they are expanding their sphere of influence well beyond the Gulf, providing Africa with long-term collaboration and financial support as it transitions to sustainable energy.

By 2030, the GCC nations have committed over $100 billion to renewable energy. Africa, a continent with abundant solar potential, a lack of energy, and unrealized economic potential is seeing an increasing amount of that cash.

Investing in Africa helps the UAE and its neighbors achieve three goals: geopolitical influence, energy security, and economic diversity. By doing this, these nations are shedding their historical reputation as oil exporters. With its enormous landmass, expanding population, and rising demand, Africa is at the center of their repositioned role as builders of the sustainable energy future.

Africa now has about 70 GW of renewable capacity, which is little given the size of the continent, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency. However, the African Union has set lofty targets, hoping to reach 700 GW by 2040 and 300 GW by 2030.