In 2023, global imports of solar panels from China surged to 219,082MW, marking a significant increase from the previous year’s 164,164MW. However, Africa’s share in these imports remained disproportionately low, accounting for a mere 4%.

South Africa emerged as the primary importer in 2023, acquiring nearly half of the total imports to Africa, amounting to 4,343MW.

Other African nations also contributed to the import statistics, with Egypt securing 1,017MW, representing approximately 10% of the total and Nigeria securing 9% with 861MW. Egypt built its 1,650MW solar park Benban in 2018 and commissioned it a year later.

Africa has 60% of the world’s solar potential, which makes it ideal to adopt solar energy on the continent, but its uptake of Chinese solar panels remains modest.

As the world transitions towards renewable energy sources, bridging this gap and fostering greater access to solar technology in Africa could be pivotal in addressing energy poverty and achieving sustainable development goals.