Africa is entering a new era of solar energy development, leveraging its abundant sunshine to address energy poverty and drive economic growth. The continent recently surpassed 20 gigawatts (GW) of installed solar capacity, with an additional 10 GW under construction. Despite this progress, roughly 600 million Africans—over half the population—still lack access to electricity. With more than 3,000 hours of annual sunlight and about 60% of the world’s prime solar resources, solar power presents an unprecedented opportunity to electrify communities, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and stimulate sustainable development.
Among African nations, South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, and Namibia are leading the solar revolution. South Africa accounts for nearly half of the continent’s installed capacity, driven by programs like REIPPPP and projects such as the De Aar and Jasper solar farms. Egypt has capitalized on its deserts with the 1.65 GW Benban Solar Park and other large-scale installations, while Morocco’s Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex combines concentrated solar power and photovoltaics to supply millions with clean energy. Kenya stands out in East Africa for its distributed solar solutions, from the 50 MW Garissa Solar Power Plant to pay-as-you-go home systems, enabling rural electrification at scale. Namibia, with high solar irradiance, is expanding utility-scale projects and exploring green hydrogen, aiming to become a net energy exporter.
These countries demonstrate the impact of strong policy frameworks, innovative financing models, and strategic public-private partnerships. Beyond large solar farms, off-grid and distributed solutions are transforming communities, creating jobs, and fostering local entrepreneurship. Initiatives like Kenya’s M-Kopa micro-payment system highlight how innovative distribution can bring energy to remote households. Together, these nations exemplify how solar energy can simultaneously address electricity access, climate change, and economic development. As Africa continues its renewable energy trajectory, these leaders offer a roadmap for harnessing solar power as a sustainable engine for growth and prosperity across the continent.