Africa crosses milestone in solar power

Installed capacity touches 20 GWp with 40,000 new projects under construction

While new solar installations are slowing in other parts of the world, Africa's solar sector is on a strong growth trajectory, dominated by the continent's northern and southern regions.

According to a recent analysis by the Africa Solar Industry Association, the continent has just surpassed the symbolic milestone of 20 gigawatt-peak of installed capacity, with another 10 GWp currently under construction — a sign of buoyant activity and strong growth ahead.

The installed capacity covers solar across utility-scale plants, commercial and industrial systems, mini-grids and solar home systems, underscoring the sector's breadth and diversity. Close to 40,000 different projects are currently at various stages of development.