Africa’s Solar Installations Set for Record Growth in 2026
A vast solar power farm in Africa, advancing renewable energy initiatives to promote sustainable development in the region.
Africa is heading toward its third consecutive record year for solar installations, with new capacity expected to reach 17 gigawatts in 2026—a 45% increase from 2025. The expansion comes as countries seek alternatives to inadequate electricity infrastructure, which still leaves nearly 600 million Africans without access to power. The International Renewable Energy Agency has also highlighted the potential of off-grid renewable systems, particularly solar mini-grids, to improve climate resilience and electricity access in underserved parts of Francophone West Africa. Countries including Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Mali, Niger and Senegal have rural electrification rates as low as 2% to 10% in some areas. Nigeria is also pursuing solar mini-grids, including through a $200 million rural electrification deal announced last year.