According to a report by Powerelec Nigeria, global solar installations hit a record 503 GWp in 2024, marking a 44% increase from 2023.
The Africa Solar Outlook 2025 noted the trend continues with 2.5 GWp of new installations for the third consecutive year, bringing the continent’s total capacity (excluding residential) to 19.2 GWp.
Why it matters
While Africa’s solar capacity accounts for less than 1% of the global total, the consistent growth signals a robust, expanding industry across the continent.
By the numbers:
- Top installers:
- South Africa: 1,235 MWp
- Egypt: 707 MWp
- Zambia: 74.8 MWp
- Nigeria: 63.5 MWp
- Angola: 53.8 MWp
- Solar adoption:
- 2 African nations installed more than 100 MW in 2024 (up from 1 in 2023).
- 29 countries installed at least 1 MW (2 more than 2023).
Zoom in: The rise of storage
Energy storage capacity skyrocketed to 1,600 MWh in 2024 from an average of just 50 MWh annually between 2017 and 2022.
Falling lithium-ion battery costs—down 20% in 2024—have driven this surge, spurred by overproduction and fierce competition in the global market.
Notable projects
- Soma Project, The Gambia: 100 MW / 130 MWh
- Lolda Solar Farm, Senegal: 60 MWp PV + 72 MWh storage
- Egypt’s 900 MW PV / 720 MWh storage project by Masdar and Infinity Power
The big picture
Central African Republic leads Africa in solar’s contribution to the national grid (40%). Meanwhile, South Africa and Egypt dominate new installations, contributing 50% and 29% respectively of the continent’s 2024 capacity.
What’s next
The Africa Solar Outlook 2025 report highlights opportunities for growth, detailing country-specific solar policies, electrification rates, and renewable energy goals. Expect more diversified solar adoption as smaller projects come online across new markets.
Explore the full report here.
