UNLOCKING THE POWER

Africa’s solar energy potential is immense. But unlocking this potential will involve multiple governments and partners working together.

In the infographic below, data specialist Statista ranks Africa ahead of Central and South America, North America, Asia, Oceania, Europe and Russia for long-term potential solar energy output. Source.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR US?

According to research, roughly 20 percent of the world population lives in 70 countries which possess “excellent conditions” for solar power, in other words, long-term output exceeding 4.5 kWh/kWp per day. Only the countries in Africa average together above this threshold on a world region basis.

A lot of this potential in the less developed countries of Africa is still untapped. Still, as the source states, it represents “a unique opportunity to provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity services to a large share of humanity where improved economic opportunities and quality of life are the most needed.”

OUR SOLUTION?

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Africa has 60% of the world’s best solar resources but only 1% of solar generation capacity.

To achieve its energy and climate goals, Africa needs $190 billion of investment a year between 2026 to 2030, with two-thirds of this going to clean energy, the IEA says.

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