Africa's solar energy market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by declining costs, rising energy demand, and supportive policy frameworks. According to the Africa Market Outlook for Solar PV report by the Global Solar Council, the top 10 African solar markets installed 2,402 MW of solar power in 2024, with South Africa and Egypt leading the way.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that solar PV and wind power are now more affordable than gas and coal in most parts of Africa, and by 2030, they are expected to generate 27% of the continent's electricity. Despite having 60% of the world's best solar resources, solar PV currently accounts for just 3% of Africa's electricity generation. However, with global initiatives to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030, Africa's vast solar potential positions it as a crucial player in the clean energy transition.

The report highlights that Sub-Saharan Africa is set to witness significant solar growth, with mini-grids playing a key role in rural electrification. Climate change is further exacerbating challenges such as food insecurity, water shortages, and economic instability, making clean energy expansion essential for sustainable development. As of January 2025, approximately 600 million Africans remain without electricity, underscoring the urgent need for electrification.

The top 10 African solar markets by new solar installations in 2024 include South Africa, Egypt, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Zambia, Angola, Ivory Coast, Morocco, and The Gambia. These nations are leveraging high solar irradiance and supportive policies to accelerate renewable energy adoption. South Africa led with 46% of the continent's total new solar capacity, followed by Egypt at 29%. Other key contributors, including Ghana, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Zambia, and Angola, each accounted for 3-4%, reflecting a diversification of solar investments across the continent.

The growing presence of smaller markets indicates a broader shift towards decentralized solar development, fostering greater energy access and sustainability across Africa. While South Africa and Egypt remain the largest players, the emergence of new markets signals a promising trend towards a more diverse and resilient solar energy landscape in Africa.

The Global Solar Council notes that China continues to dominate solar deployment, contributing 253 GW out of 447 GW installed globally in 2023 and adding an even higher 277 GWac (or approximately 332 GWdc) in 2024. By September 2024, global cumulative solar capacity surpassed the 2-terawatt (TW) milestone, though installation rates remain uneven worldwide.

The rapid growth of Africa's solar energy market is a significant development in the global clean energy transition. As the continent continues to harness its vast solar potential, it is likely to play an increasingly important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development.

In conclusion, Africa's solar energy market is poised for continued growth, driven by declining costs, rising energy demand, and supportive policy frameworks. As the continent continues to invest in solar infrastructure, it is likely to make significant strides towards achieving its renewable energy goals and promoting sustainable development.