Cairo: Africas solar panel imports have surged by 60% in the 12 months leading up to June 2025, marking a notable increase in the continent's adoption of solar energy systems. This rise, as detailed in a report by energy think tank Ember, indicates a potential transformation in the electricity systems across numerous African nations.
According to African Press Organization, the data reveals that African solar panel imports have reached a record 15,032 MW, significantly up from the 9,379 MW recorded in the preceding year. Countries such as Algeria, Zambia, Botswana, and Sudan have shown remarkable growth, with imports rising 33-fold, eightfold, sevenfold, and sixfold respectively. Other nations, including Liberia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Benin, Angola, and Ethiopia, have also more than tripled their imports.
Despite these significant import figures, there is no available data on the actual installations of these solar panels. Muhammad Mustafa Amjad, Program Director at Renewables First, emphasized the importance of tracking solar installations to ensure an organized and accelerated energy transition. He stated, "When you don’t track, you lose time and opportunities. Africa’s transition will happen regardless, but with timely data it can be more equitable, planned, and inclusive."
The analysis suggests that if the imported panels are fully installed, they could make substantial contributions to electricity generation in several African countries. For instance, Sierra Leone could see an increase equivalent to 61% of its reported 2023 electricity generation, while Chad could achieve a 49% increase. In total, 16 countries could experience a rise in electricity generation by over 5%.
The report also highlights the economic benefits of solar energy, noting that the savings from replacing diesel with solar power could repay the cost of solar panels in a short timeframe, particularly in countries like Nigeria. In nine of the ten largest solar panel importing countries, the value of refined petroleum imports far exceeds that of solar panels by a substantial margin.
Further research and evidence are deemed necessary to fully understand and harness the potential of solar energy in Africa. Dave Jones, Chief Analyst at Ember, remarked, "The take-off of solar in Africa is a pivotal moment. This report is a call to action, urging stronger research, analysis, and reporting on solar's rise to ensure the world's cheapest electricity source fulfils its vast potential to transform the African continent."
This increase in solar imports indicates the early stages of a significant shift in Africa’s energy landscape, with the potential for rapid change and development in the coming years.
