According to the 2021 Renewable Capacity Statistics from Science Direct, Africa possesses 40% of the world’s solar power potential. Remarkably, there are over 640 million Africans without access to electricity, representing the highest number globally. Access to electricity plays a pivotal role in achieving significant outcomes related to the United Nations’ sustainability goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Insufficient energy access has led to fatalities, hindered development, and substantial food losses across the continent. Given Africa’s abundant renewable energy potential, particularly solar energy due to its proximity to the equator, harnessing this resource could be transformative.

Solar energy aligns with the global effort to combat climate change, even though Africa contributes less than 3% of global emissions. Some African countries are taking proactive steps to tap into solar energy, as reported by IRENA. Notably, last year’s growth was predominantly driven by five specific nations: Egypt, South Africa, Kenya, Namibia, and Ghana.

However, the progress in solar energy adoption has been hampered by financial challenges. The establishment and maintenance of solar grids impose a significant financial burden on importers, distributors, dealers, and end-users, thereby limiting the full potential of solar power in Africa.