There’s no doubt that Africa is moving faster than any other place on the planet to adopt renewable energy technologies. In the 12 months prior to June 2025, solar panel imports had already been an incredible 15,032 MW. That’s a significant jump from 9,379 MW in 2022. It highlights the growing movement among African countries to invest in solar energy solutions. The report illustrates how 20 countries on the continent have recently reached new highs for solar panel imports. This indicates a shift towards a potentially transformative change in the energy landscape.
In fact, the largest importer of solar panels is South Africa. It truly reflects a steadfast commitment to renewables. Nigeria has quickly jumped ahead to become the second-largest importer. Over the last year, it managed to import 1,721 MW, edging out Egypt, which had held that crown for years. Algeria made extraordinary strides by entering 1,199 MW of solar panels on import. This reflects an incredible THIRTY-THREE times as much solar capacity that it imports in solar panels.
Emerging Leaders in Solar Imports
Countries such as Zambia have seen similarly great strides, increasing their solar panel imports by eight times. These developments indicate a broader shift toward renewable energy sources across the continent, as nations recognize the importance of reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Yet the report raises a sobering truth. Nine of the top ten importing countries are still extremely reliant on imports of refined petroleum—with values exceeding that of solar panels by a crazy 30 to 107 times. This disparity highlights the moral imperative for a new approach to how we source and invest in energy.
Call to Action for Research and Development
Experts are calling for more research and analysis. They are adamant that in order to address climate change, we must realize the full potential of solar energy across the African continent. Ember chief analyst Dave Jones stated, “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 fulfills its vast potential to transform the African continent.”
According to the report, a new electrifying scenario offers a thrilling prospect. Savings from lower diesel consumption in Nigeria would fund solar panels within half a year! Such an economic incentive would only accelerate the growth of solar energy and solar jobs adoption across the country and around the world.
The Road Ahead for Africa’s Solar Energy Sector
Africa has so far not experienced a solar boom on the scale of Pakistan’s recent growth. The good news is that these early signs of change are very positive! There is still an urgent and unavoidable demand for data and research to better understand and leverage this extraordinary solar boom. Yet African countries have the means to bridge these divides. In doing so, they can unlock the full potential of solar power – a clean, resilient, and affordable energy source.