ABSTRACT
This chapter offers a sketch of Mozambique's contending pathways to expanding energy access. It addresses the following question: in the context of significant fossil fuel resources discoveries, what is the role of renewable energy technologies and why are they being promoted? The chapter reviews the concept of energy transitions and outlines some of the high-carbon developments in the country. It examines changes in Mozambique's energy provision system and identifies the actors engaged in efforts to reach the energy poor. The chapter presents small-scale renewable energy projects and reflects on Mozambique's incomplete energy transition. It argues that energy interventions from the state and donors in Mozambique—including on-grid and off-grid initiatives—are largely led by technology. The chapter focuses on a series of interviews with government officials, policymakers, representatives of utilities, donors, businesses and non-governmental organisations conducted in Maputo and Beira in 2013–2014, along with site visits to energy service projects.
