How Africa Is Unlocking Its Solar Market Momentum for a Sustainable Future
How Africa Is Unlocking Its Solar Market Momentum for a Sustainable Future
Africa’s Solar Market Is Accelerating
Africa enjoys some of the highest solar irradiation levels in the world. Today, the continent is witnessing record growth in solar installations, increased investment flows, and rapid scaling of innovative projects.
This momentum is not a temporary spike. Instead, it reflects a structured shift driven by policy reforms, new technologies, and strong private-sector participation.
A Pivotal Moment Ahead of Intersolar Africa 2026
Intersolar Africa 2026, happening at Nairobi’s Sarit Centre on 3–4 February 2026, captures this turning point. As organizers, we see firsthand how Africa’s renewable energy market is evolving into a resilient ecosystem.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), sub-Saharan Africa added over 10 GW of solar capacity in the last five years. This growth demonstrates the continent’s ability to attract billions in foreign direct investment.
Kenya’s Solar Success Story
Kenya illustrates this momentum clearly. Although the Lake Turkana Wind Farm often attracts attention, solar remains the country’s quiet energy engine. Off-grid systems now power over 20% of rural households thanks to pay-as-you-go models introduced by firms like M-KOPA.
Furthermore, reforms such as feed-in tariffs and the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP) continue to open investment opportunities.
As a result, foreign direct investment in Kenyan renewables rose to $1.2 billion last year up 40% from 2023, according to the Kenya Investment Authority.
Trends Across the Continent
Kenya’s progress mirrors wider African trends. South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) has added over 6 GW of solar capacity since 2011.
By adapting global best practices, including lessons from Germany’s Energiewende, South Africa now hosts major projects like the 100 MW Kathu Solar Park, which supplies clean energy and creates thousands of local jobs.
Similarly, Morocco’s Noor Complex, one of the world’s largest concentrated solar power plants, demonstrates how North African countries use advanced public-private partnerships to accelerate deployment.
These projects link through regional power pools such as the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), enabling cross-border energy trade and regional grid stability.
What Is Driving the Momentum?
Several factors are fuelling Africa’s solar acceleration:
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Falling PV costs: Solar module prices have dropped by 89% since 2010, according to BloombergNEF.
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Advances in battery storage: African markets now adopt storage solutions inspired by global leaders but tailored to local needs.
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Hybrid systems: Countries like Nigeria now integrate solar hybrids with existing infrastructure, reducing dependence on gas and diesel.
How Africa Is Unlocking Its Solar Market Momentum for a Sustainable Future
Beyond Energy Generation: A Growing Solar Ecosystem
As the market expands, new opportunities are emerging in financing, skills training, and supply chains. Green bonds, climate funds, and programmes like the EU’s Global Gateway are injecting capital into the sector.
Development banks such as Germany’s KfW are de-risking investments, following proven global models.
This creates space for new businesses:
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Digital platforms for energy trading in Ghana
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Local technician training centres in Tanzania
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Manufacturing and assembly hubs across East Africa
Challenges That Can Be Solved
Africa still faces hurdles, including grid limitations and inconsistent regulations. However, countries like Rwanda show that reform-driven policies can transform energy access.
Achieving 75% electrification through solar mini-grids proves what is possible with the right strategy.
Stronger international cooperation such as adopting ISO standards for solar systems or collaborating with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) will help scale the market even faster.
Intersolar Africa 2026: A Hub for Innovation and Deal-Making
As we move toward Intersolar Africa 2026, one thing is clear: Africa’s solar market is no longer emerging
it is accelerating. With around 100 exhibitors expected, the expo will serve as a marketplace for ideas, investment, and meaningful partnerships. Nairobi, a continental innovation hub, provides the perfect stage to bring global and African players together.
The Path Ahead
Africa’s solar potential is immense, estimated at 10 TW by IRENA. With the right investments, this energy can power industries, transform communities, and fuel sustainable economic growth.
The continent is already moving in this direction, and stakeholders must seize the opportunity to shape the future.
Dr. Florian Wessendorf welcomes continued dialogue on Africa’s solar journey. Visit intersolar.co.ke or connect on LinkedIn for updates on Intersolar Africa 2026.
By Dr. Florian Wessendorf,
Managing Director, Solar Promotion International GmbH
