Africa leads growth in solar energy as demand spreads beyond traditional hubs

An industry report says Africa was the fastest-growing solar market in 2025, with installed capacity rising 17% and large imports of Chinese-made panels; working capacity still trails the nearly 64 GWp shipped to the continent since 2017.

A report from the Africa Solar Industry Association says Africa was the world's fastest-growing solar market in 2025. Installed capacity on the continent rose 17% that year. Much of the expansion was supported by imports of Chinese-made solar panels and falling battery costs. At the same time, many countries are moving to build local manufacturing and service capacity. Key facts: - Africa's installed solar capacity expanded 17% in 2025, according to the industry report. - Global solar capacity rose 23% in 2025 to 618 GW, down from a 44% increase in 2024. - Nearly 64 GWp of solar equipment has been shipped to Africa since 2017, but working capacity is about 23.4 GWp. - Twenty countries set new annual records for solar imports last year, and 25 countries imported at least 100 MW of capacity. - Battery storage costs in Africa fell to $112 per kilowatt-hour in 2025 from $144 per kilowatt-hour in 2023. - Nigeria overtook Egypt as Africa's second-largest importer and announced plans for a 1 GW solar panel factory; similar facilities are under construction in Egypt, South Africa and Ethiopia. Summary: The 2025 growth trend has broadened solar demand across many African markets and highlighted strong links to Chinese panel suppliers. Moves to expand local manufacturing and seek technology transfer are underway, while policy uncertainty in some countries remains a noted challenge. Undetermined at this time.