Africa strengthened its position as the world’s largest off-grid solar market in 2025, accounting for more than 90% of global sales as households, small businesses, and rural communities increasingly turned to solar energy to address unreliable grid supply and limited electricity access. According to the latest Global Off-Grid Solar Market Report released by GOGLA, affiliated companies sold a record 10.2 million solar energy kits globally in 2025, with the overwhelming majority of demand originating from African markets. The report noted that off-grid solar systems now provide electricity access to nearly 148 million people worldwide, with Africa remaining the sector’s primary growth engine.
Growth was driven by rising demand for solar home systems, multi-light kits, and energy-efficient appliances, supported by innovative pay-as-you-go (PAYGo) financing models that make clean energy more affordable for low-income consumers. GOGLA data shows that East Africa remained the largest market, while strong growth was also recorded in West Africa, particularly Nigeria. Record PAYGo sales helped accelerate adoption among households and small enterprises seeking alternatives to costly diesel generators and unreliable power grids.
The sector’s expansion comes amid broader momentum in Africa’s renewable energy market. Reuters reported that the continent installed a record 4.5 gigawatts of solar capacity in 2025, a 54% increase from the previous year, while the Africa Solar Industry Association identified Africa as the world’s fastest-growing solar market. Falling prices for Chinese-made solar panels and batteries, alongside supportive government policies and private-sector investment, have accelerated deployment across both on-grid and off-grid segments.
For Africa, the rise of off-grid solar represents more than an energy transition story. It is increasingly becoming a driver of economic inclusion, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently, supporting digital connectivity, and improving livelihoods in underserved communities. Analysts say sustained investment in financing, distribution networks, and supportive regulation will be critical to maintaining growth momentum and achieving universal energy access targets, while positioning Africa as a key market in the global clean energy economy.
