Solar energy is experiencing spectacular growth across the African continent.
According to the report "African Solar PV Market Outlook 2026–2029” published by the Global Solar Council, Africa installed approximately 4.5 gigawatts (GW) of new photovoltaic capacity in 2025, compared to 2.9 GW in 2024.
This represents a 54% increase in one year, setting a new record for the continent. The previous highest level had been recorded in 2023, with around 3.1 GW of new installations.
This trend confirms the growing role of solar energy in Africa’s energy mix, as the continent faces rapidly increasing electricity demand while accelerating its transition toward more sustainable energy sources.
The rise of solar power comes in a context marked by a significant energy deficit. According to the World Bank, nearly 600 million Africans still lack access to electricity, representing almost half of the continent’s population.
In this context, solar energy appears as a strategic solution. It allows for the rapid deployment of production capacity, particularly in rural areas far from traditional power grids.
The Global Solar Council highlights that the declining cost of photovoltaic technologies and the growing interest of international investors are strongly contributing to the sector’s expansion. The organization also notes that Africa benefits from one of the highest solar potentials in the world, with sunlight capable of generating several thousand gigawatts of energy.
Despite this momentum, Africa’s contribution to the global solar market remains limited. The sector is still largely dominated by regions such as China, Europe, and the United States.
However, solar energy could play a central role in electrifying the continent and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Africa holds about 60% of the world’s best solar resources, yet accounts for less than 1% of installed global photovoltaic capacity.
This paradox is explained by several obstacles, including limited access to financing, insufficient electricity infrastructure, and still fragile regulatory frameworks in some countries.
Some countries are currently playing a leading role in the development of solar energy in Africa.
South Africa stands out as one of the most dynamic markets, particularly due to the gradual liberalization of its energy sector and the ongoing electricity production crisis.
Other countries such as Egypt, Morocco, and Kenya have also launched major solar projects in recent years.
These investments are part of a broader strategy aimed at diversifying energy sources and strengthening the continent’s energy security.
Beyond improving access to electricity, the development of solar energy could become a major lever for Africa’s energy transition and the fight against climate change.
Although Africa accounts for less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, it remains one of the regions most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. In this context, the deployment of renewable energy offers a strategic opportunity: supporting economic growth while limiting the carbon footprint.
According to the Global Solar Council report, the period 2026–2029 could mark a new phase of acceleration for the African solar market, driven by rising energy demand, technological advances, and increased investment.
If this momentum continues, solar energy could become one of the pillars of Africa’s energy system over the next decade.