African solar energy enters a period of unprecedented growth starting from 2025

Africa is witnessing a historic turning point in the renewable energy sector. According to a report from the Global Solar Council (GSC) released in January, the solar power industry on the continent has entered an unprecedented development phase. Information from Jin10 indicates that the main driver behind this surge is the rapid increase in utility-scale projects across the region.

The Rise of Large-Scale Projects Driving Change

2025 has become a pivotal year for solar energy development in Africa. The continent added 4.5 gigawatts of solar capacity, representing an impressive 54% growth compared to the previous year, surpassing the record set in 2023. This growth is not accidental but the result of many countries’ clean energy infrastructure development strategies.

GSC forecasts that if this trend continues at the current pace, Africa’s annual solar capacity could increase sixfold by 2029, reaching over 33 gigawatts. This would mark a comprehensive transformation in Africa’s energy landscape.

South Africa Leads, Nigeria and Egypt Accelerate Deployment

When examining capacity distribution, a clearer picture emerges from specific data. South Africa remains the continent’s leader with an installed capacity of 1.6 gigawatts, demonstrating the country’s dominance in renewable energy. Nigeria and Egypt follow closely, deploying 803 megawatts and 500 megawatts of new capacity respectively.

This distribution reflects a regional strategy that enables multiple countries to expand clean energy capacity simultaneously. These nations are not only focusing on large utility-scale projects but also developing smaller-scale solar distribution markets, creating a comprehensive renewable energy ecosystem.

33 Gigawatts Expected by 2029: A Bright Future for Clean Energy

The long-term outlook for Africa’s solar industry is extremely optimistic. As infrastructure and technology continue to develop, forecasts suggest that total annual capacity could reach a record 33 gigawatts or more before 2029. The journey from 4.5 gigawatts in 2025 to 33 gigawatts in 2029 not only reflects numerical growth but also symbolizes a sustainable energy transition across the continent.