10 nations to account for 95% new solar capacity in Africa by 2024

In 2024, 95% of new solar capacity installed in Africa was concentrated in ten countries, according to the ‘Africa Market Outlook for Solar PV 2025-2028’ report published this March by The Global Solar Council (GSC), illustrating the marked but still uneven growth on the continent.

South Africa and Egypt remain the two undisputed leaders of the African solar market, accounting for more than two-thirds of installed capacity this year. South Africa retains its position as the biggest contributor, with 46% of new installations, despite a 33% drop compared with 2023. Egypt, meanwhile, has added 700 MW with the commissioning of ACWA Power and AMEA Power projects.

Behind these two countries, Ghana moved up to third place with 94 MW installed, boosted by the Bui Dam solar project (45 MW) and the boom in commercial and industrial solar power. Burkina Faso, in fourth place, followed with 87 MW, an increase of 129%, driven by the commissioning of three power plants.

According to the report, Nigeria (73 MW) and Zambia (69 MW) are continuing their energy transition by developing larger-scale projects. Zambia saw growth of 116%, despite the validation of new coal-fired power stations, which could put the brakes on its green ambitions.

Ultimately, Angola, Iv ory Coast, Morocco and Gambia round out the ranking, with notable advances such as Gambia’s first utility-scale solar project (23 MW) and the start-up of the Boundiali power plant in Côte d’Ivoire (37.5 MW).

source: Agence ecofin