Installation of solar power systems in Africa

Does Africa need solar power?

Solar power can help Africa reduce emissions and widen access to electricity, but the continent is only in the early stages of building its solar resources. Statista reported earlier this year that Africa generates 9% of its energy from renewable resources, and that solar capacity in Africa grew 13% between 2019 and 2020.

How many solar plants are there in Africa?

The number of solar plants built in Africa remains low, representing barely 1 % of the continent’s total energy production. The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights that the continent has 60 % of the world’s best solar resources. In 2023, 38 African countries are implementing solar installations with a capacity of over 1 megawatt (MW).

How much solar capacity has Africa added in 2024?

AFSIA’s Africa Solar Outlook 2025 report, released today (15 January) points out that Africa has added 2.5GWp of new solar capacity in 2024, reaching a total of 19.2GWp across the continent. Now in its fifth year, the report says the number is definitely an underestimation of the real capacity added because it:

Does South Africa need more solar power?

However, despite topping the table, South Africa experienced a sharp decline in installation rates in 2024, with just under 35% of solar capacity installed in 2023 added in 2024. Such a low share of business is not doing justice to the African solar potential nor the need for new power generation across the continent

Which African countries are implementing solar projects in 2023?

In 2023, 38 African countries are implementing solar installations with a capacity of over 1 megawatt (MW). However, South Africa and Egypt remain the leaders in this field. The South African government, in particular, is proactively exploiting its solar potential, with many major projects already completed.

Where can solar power be used in West Africa?

Located in Kenhardt, this facility combines 540 MW of solar power with 225 MW of battery storage, offering a total potential of 1,140 MWh. The exceptionally high sunshine levels in West Africa provide a unique opportunity for solar energy exploitation.