Green Success Stories sits down with Dr. Patrick Agese of Pam America to share his vision for Africa’s transition to renewable energy.
Dr. Agese, tell us a little bit about you and your background:
I started building renewable energy projects at the tender age of 11, and since then, I have dedicated my career to clean energy. In 2014, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Green Energy Technology from De Montfort University and then went ahead to work for global firms building such projects in the UK. After that, I decided I wanted to contribute to the knowledge in this field. I earned a PhD in Energy and Environmental Engineering from the University of Reading in 2020 and went on to build PAMAfrica in 2021, where I serve as its Founder and CEO, running its day-to-day operations. I have been recognised by the IChemE Global Awards and the BBBA Awards for my contributions to clean energy innovations.
What is a fun fact about you?
I particularly enjoy swimming, a lot. I’ve been doing so for most of my life and I find it relaxing. I also love it as a sport so I look out for it during the Olympics and other competitions. I’m also fascinated by cars and watches. I spend a lot of my free time on YouTube learning about new models and new technologies.
Why do you think climate change and sustainability is such an important topic today?
Climate change and sustainability are such important topics as they affect everything and everyone. It affects human, animal and plant life as it causes extreme wildfires, rising sea levels, extreme heat, erosion, flooding and a decrease in air and water quality. If we do not make and implement the right strategies to protect the planet and ensure sustainability, the future of the human race will be bleak.
What do you envision your industry looking like 10 years from now?
I believe the future is bright for the renewable energy industry. More and more countries across the globe are beginning to adopt more renewable energy technologies in hopes of completely phasing out fossil fuel and nuclear power. Reports coming in today show that about 100 cities across the globe, such as Nairobi and Oslo, get at least 70% of their electricity from renewable energy. In 10 years, I envision that over 200 cities will be getting 100% of their electricity from renewable sources, with hydropower, wind and solar energy at the forefront.
What can the average person do to make a difference?
Living an eco-friendly life can go a long way in preventing climate change. Things like switching off a bulb when it’s not in use, using containers instead of paper bags, switching to renewable energy sources like solar for electricity and opting for biodegradable products can make a huge difference and protect the environment.
Thank you, Dr. Patrick Agese of Pam America, for sharing your vision for Africa’s transition to renewable