A solar revolution is emerging across Africa, led by record-breaking imports of low-cost Chinese solar panels and new investments in decentralized energy systems. According to Il Sole 24 Ore, 20 African countries have set all-time highs in solar panel imports from China, rising 60% year-on-year—from 9 gigawatts in 2024 to 15 gigawatts in the first half of 2025 alone. This surge marks a turning point for a continent where only 4% of global solar energy production currently takes place, and where countries like Belgium still surpass Africa’s total installed capacity.
In Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, even the presidential residence now relies on solar power. Supported by the World Bank, a growing network of mini-grids is bringing stable electricity to areas long hindered by unreliable fossil-fueled systems. In Sierra Leone, newly imported solar panels could produce electricity equal to 61% of the nation’s 2023 total power output if fully deployed. Beyond energy access, the economic benefits are striking: savings from reduced diesel use can repay solar system costs within six months in Nigeria, and in most major importers, annual oil import costs exceed solar import values.
Despite progress, energy poverty remains severe — around 600 million Africans lack electricity, and nearly one billion still rely on wood or polluting fuels for cooking. Experts like Melaku Yirga of Mercy Corps stress that renewable energy is both Africa’s greatest opportunity and an urgent necessity, supporting irrigation, food security, healthcare, and livelihoods. However, without stronger international funding and policy incentives, achieving large-scale electrification and climate adaptation goals remains uncertain.
Link:
https://en.ilsole24ore.com/art/solar-energy-starts-to-make-a-difference-in-africa-AHyBX6YD
