The Solar Energy Market in Africa is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 42.3% between 2025 and 2035, reaching an estimated value of USD 8.29 billion by the end of 2035.
Africa solar growth: Key drivers of expansion
The growth of Africa’s solar energy market is being fueled by substantial investments in renewable energy projects across the continent. Countries such as Ghana, Senegal, and Mozambique have become attractive destinations for global investors interested in Africa’s renewable energy sector. Notably, Kenya has emerged as a leader in East Africa’s renewable energy landscape, with over 90% of its electricity generated from renewable sources by 2021.
In 2022, Kenya attracted USD 1.4 billion in investment for renewable energy projects, highlighting the increasing interest in sustainable power solutions. The African Development Bank (AfDB) has played a pivotal role in supporting the continent’s renewable energy initiatives by committing USD 2 billion to renewable energy projects between 2015 and 2020.
This funding has been instrumental in the development of solar power plants and off-grid systems, accelerating the transition to clean energy. The Global Solar Atlas emphasizes Africa’s vast solar potential, with many regions enjoying high levels of solar radiation, making it an ideal hub for solar energy projects.
Africa solar growth: Unlocking high solar potential
Countries such as Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa have harnessed their solar potential by developing large-scale solar projects. Egypt’s Benban Solar Park, with a capacity of 1.65 gigawatts (GW), stands as one of the world’s largest solar installations. Similarly, Morocco’s Noor Solar Complex, with a capacity of 580 megawatts (MW), exemplifies Africa’s commitment to solar energy.
South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) has been remarkably successful, with over 6.4 GW of renewable energy projects awarded since its inception. The African Union recognizes the importance of renewable energy for the continent’s sustainable development and has set ambitious targets to increase renewable energy capacity.
These targets, along with the continent’s vast solar resources, offer significant opportunities for investors and stakeholders in the renewable energy sector. Government policies and initiatives are also vital in propelling the growth of Africa’s solar energy market. More insights can be found in the Africa solar growth to Surge by 42% in 2025: Discover the Impact.
Africa solar growth: Government support and policy impact
Numerous African governments have implemented policies to support renewable energy development, such as feed-in tariffs, tax incentives, and public-private partnerships. South Africa’s REIPPPP is a prime example of a successful government initiative that has attracted substantial investment and contributed to the country’s renewable energy capacity.
Kenya’s Energy Act of 2019 is another example, providing a framework for renewable energy project development and encouraging private sector participation. The African Union’s Agenda 2063 outlines the continent’s long-term vision for sustainable development, underscoring the role of renewable energy in achieving these goals.
The Africa Renewable Energy Initiative (AREI), launched in 2015, aims to add 300 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to financing, and regulatory hurdles remain. Despite these challenges, the continent’s solar energy potential presents significant opportunities for growth and development. The potential of solar energy in Africa was also highlighted during the Renewable Energy Africa: 5 Essential Insights from 2025 Conference.
Africa solar growth: Major players shaping the market
Africa has the potential to become a global leader in renewable energy with the right investments and policies, providing clean and affordable power to millions while reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable economic growth. The expansion of solar energy in Africa is expected to have far-reaching impacts on the continent’s economy, environment, and society.
The growth of the solar energy market in Africa is supported by major players such as The Meeco Group, Canadian Solar Inc., and SunPower Corporation. The Meeco Group, a Swiss-based company, has been active in Africa since 2006, providing solar energy solutions to countries like Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Nigeria. In 2022, the company launched a solar power plant in Mozambique with a capacity of 2 MW.
Canadian Solar Inc., a leading global solar energy solutions provider, has been involved in several projects across Africa. In 2022, the company announced the launch of a 100 MW solar power plant in South Africa, further contributing to the country’s renewable energy capacity. SunPower Corporation, another significant player in the solar energy market, has been active in Africa since 2015, offering solar energy solutions to countries such as South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt.