In 2023, the sun shone brighter than ever on the world’s renewable energy landscape, illuminating pathways to progress and empowerment. While the global trend gains momentum with a growing understanding of the inevitable need for a green, sustainable transition, for hundreds of millions in Africa, this journey signifies much more than just a cleaner and greener future.

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Take Teresa (not real names*), for example. At 23, she is one of seven children, residing in Juru, Bugusera District, in Rwanda’s Eastern Province. Her family's livelihood revolves around their farm, where they diligently cultivate cassava, yams, and other crops. Yet, for much of her life, Teresa and her family relied on battery-operated torches for light, a costly expense that often left them in the dark. Sundown marked the end of their day, as it does for many in rural parts of the country.

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However, a pivotal decision in 2021 changed their trajectory – they invested in a small solar home system, harnessing sunlight affordably and sustainably.

"We used to live in the dark; now we can have light anytime we want," remarked Teresa's mother, Gwiza, encapsulating the profound impact of their transition to solar energy. With reliable access to electricity, evenings ceased to be a time of isolation for Teresa and her family; instead, they became moments of connection and security. Freed from the constraints imposed by sundown, they found themselves engaging more with their community, fostering bonds and opportunities previously out of reach. Moreover, the financial strain of purchasing batteries dissipated, allowing them to save money for the first time. Their energy expenditure, once depleted by fuel and battery costs, dwindled by 75%. And, empowered by these newfound savings, they seized the opportunity to venture into entrepreneurship, investing in a sewing machine to craft dresses for sale at the local market.

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Teresa's story is just one among millions across Africa experiencing the transformative power of solar energy. With 660 million people still living without power in their homes and communities, the impact of this transition extends far beyond illumination. It signifies economic empowerment, community resilience, and a pathway to a brighter future, powered by the sun.

Vast, untapped potential

The momentum behind solar energy in Africa has been steadily building over the past decade, with 2023 emerging as a watershed year. According to the Africa Solar Industry Association (AFSIA), global solar installations reached unprecedented levels, with over 350 GW added worldwide, marking a 46% increase from previous years. Africa also experienced substantial growth, with an estimated 3.7 GWp of solar capacity added, excluding residential installations, with more than 3 million solar home systems sold across the continent in the first half of 2023 alone, underscoring the significant role of residential adoption in driving the sector's expansion.

Despite these achievements, Africa's solar energy landscape still holds vast untapped potential. While the continent now boasts over 16 gigawatts of solar power capacity, this figure barely scratches the surface of what is needed to achieve universal access to electricity for all its citizens and communities.

Solar energy transcends mere illumination; it is a catalyst for socioeconomic development, empowering communities to thrive in myriad ways. The affordable source makes home electricity accessible to millions for the first time, enabling families to allocate resources towards education, entrepreneurship, and savings, and unlocking new opportunities for prosperity. In rural areas, solar-powered irrigation systems revolutionize agricultural practices, increasing yields and incomes for smallholder farmers. And that's just the social side of the story; on the environment one, the benefits of solar energy are undeniable, offering a pathway towards a sustainable future for Africa and the planet at large.

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However, realizing the full potential of solar energy in Africa requires concerted efforts from governments, private entities, and civil society. Investments in solar infrastructure, from big power plants to an off-grid solar home system, are imperative to meet growing energy demands. Policy frameworks that incentivize solar adoption can stimulate investment and drive deployment. And public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives are essential to promote solar energy literacy and empower local communities to embrace renewable technologies.

As we embark on the journey into 2024, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to harnessing the power of the sun for a brighter future. Teresa's story is emblematic of the transformative potential of solar energy, inspiring millions across Africa to embrace sustainable solutions for a more equitable and prosperous tomorrow.

Together, we can seize the opportunities that lie ahead and pave the way towards a solar-powered future for all.