Aligning artificial intelligence and electricity systems for sustainable development in Africa

This paper examines the interdependence between artificial intelligence (AI) and electricity systems in advancing sustainable development in Africa. The study argues that while AI offers transformative opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and service delivery, its energy-intensive nature poses significant challenges for a continent already grappling with persistent energy poverty and infrastructure deficits. The central problem is the lack of coordinated strategies aligning AI expansion with electricity system development, which risks deepening existing socio-economic and spatial inequalities. Drawing on interdisciplinary insights from energy economics, AI governance, and development theory, the paper proposes an integrated AI–electricity framework that positions both systems as mutually reinforcing pillars of development. The analysis highlights how AI can optimise energy systems through smart grids, predictive maintenance, and renewable integration, while reliable electricity enables digital transformation. The study concludes that strategic alignment is essential for achieving inclusive growth and advancing Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDGs 7, 9, and 13.