Africa is on course to install a record 17 gigawatts of solar power in 2026—an increase of 45% compared with last year—according to new analysis by energy think tank Ember.
That is equivalent to roughly 100,000 solar panels being installed every day. It would also mark Africa’s third consecutive record year, following strong growth in both 2024 and 2025.
The progress is spreading far beyond Africa’s traditional solar leaders. Thirty-six of the continent’s 54 countries are expected to install record amounts of solar capacity this year, while installations could more than double in 19 countries.
Why It Matters
Much of this expansion is being driven by smaller solar systems used by homes and businesses. These installations can bring electricity to communities, support local enterprises and reduce dependence on unreliable power supplies without waiting for large national projects.
A Brighter Future
The solar surge shows how quickly practical technology can spread when it becomes affordable and accessible. It is a powerful sign of African households, entrepreneurs and communities taking their energy future into their own hands.
Source: Ember and African Tech Futures Lab
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