Does Africa still have solar power?

While the spread of solar energy across Africa is encouraging, a significant concentration of capacity persists. In 2024, 78 per cent of all new installations were concentrated in just two countries — South Africa and Egypt.

Can solar PV solve Africa's energy deficit?

Address Energy Poverty and Infrastructure Gaps: Solar PV presents a significant opportunity to address Africa’s energy deficit, particularly in rural areas where electrification rates are low. African governments should prioritize the deployment of solar PV technologies to meet their domestic energy needs.

Does Africa have a competitive advantage in solar energy generation?

Despite these challenges, Africa holds a natural competitive advantage in solar energy generation due to its favorable geographic conditions. Solar power generation could provide a sustainable solution to meet the continent’s growing energy deficit, promote industrial development, and drive economic growth.

Should Africa Invest in solar energy?

But investment is needed to harness this solar energy potential in Africa. Africa is one of the regions most at risk from climate change, although it only emits about 4% of greenhouse gas emissions globally. Africa’s solar energy potential is immense. But unlocking this potential will involve multiple governments and partners working together.

Does Africa have a solar PV market?

Silicon, a key input for the production of c-Si solar PV cells, is also found in Africa, albeit in smaller quantities compared to global leaders like China. Nonetheless, Africa’s mineral wealth represents a significant opportunity for the continent to leverage its natural resources to become a player in the global solar PV market.

How much solar energy does Africa need?

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Africa has 60% of the world’s best solar resources, but only 1% of solar generation capacity. To achieve its energy and climate goals, Africa needs $190 billion of investment a year between 2026 to 2030, with two-thirds of this going to clean energy, the IEA says.