How much does solar PV cost in Africa?

On-grid commissioned and planned utility-scale solar PV projects between 2014 and 2018 in Africa range from around USD 1.2 to USD 4.9/W (USD 1 200 to 4 900/kW). Although Africa is currently home to a very small set of utility-scale solar PV projects, costs have been declining over time.

How much solar PV will Africa have in 2030?

New capacity additions of solar PV in Africa in 2014 exceeded 800 MW, more than doubling the continent’s cumulative installed PV capacity. This was followed by additions of 750 MW in 2015. By 2030, in IRENA’s REmap analysis of a doubling of the share of renewable energy globally, Africa could be home to more than 70 GW of solar PV capacity.

Can Africa double its solar power capacity by 2030?

However, Africa’s potential far surpasses today’s deployment and rates of new additions. In IRENA’s REmap analysis of how to double the share of renewable energy in the world’s energy system by 2030, Africa could see total installed capacity of solar PV increase to 70 GW or more.

Are solar PV systems becoming more common in Africa?

Source: World Bank, 2016. With an expanding market for the installation of solar PV systems in Africa, it naturally can be expected that companies which produce solar PV modules locally will emerge and become more common.

Is a competitive cost structure for solar PV achievable in Africa?

Project developers are now targeting sub-USD 2/W cost ranges in East and West Africa. This suggests that with the right regulatory framework and access to finance, competitive cost structures for utility-scale solar PV are achievable throughout Africa.

How much does a solar PV mini-grid cost in Africa?

Stand-alone solar PV mini-grids or solar PV-hybrid mini-grids have installed costs in Africa ranging from USD 1.9 to USD 5.9/W for systems greater than 200 kW. Solar PV mini-grids that came online in 2012 or earlier have higher costs.