Solar power companies are experiencing rapid growth in Africa, where 600 million people still lack access to electricity. These companies are playing a crucial role in providing solar power solutions to some of the most impoverished communities in Central and West Africa. The continent’s governments have historically struggled to address issues related to infrastructure and climate change, making the efforts of these solar companies even more significant.
Operating in areas where the majority of the population live without connection to the electricity grid, these companies offer a range of products, from affordable solar-powered lamps for studying at night to more elaborate home systems that can power various appliances and entertainment devices. Prices vary, with some products costing less than $20, while others can amount to thousands of dollars for comprehensive home setups.
Central and West Africa have some of the lowest electrification rates globally, with as low as 8% in West Africa, where 220 million people live without electricity according to the World Bank. Many in these regions rely on expensive and dangerous fuels like kerosene, which pose health risks and fire hazards to households and businesses.
In line with global efforts to increase renewable energy capacity, the United Nations has set a goal to triple renewable power generation by 2050. Although Africa’s carbon emissions are relatively low, solar power presents a cost-effective solution to address the energy needs of the population. The International Energy Agency reports that while progress has been made by small and medium-sized solar companies in reaching homes, more investment is required to ensure universal access to electricity by 2030.
One notable company making a difference is Easy Solar, which operates in Sierra Leone and Liberia. Co-founder Nthabiseng Mosia, inspired by her experiences of power shortages in Ghana, established the company to bring solar power to communities with low electrification rates. Since its inception in 2016, Easy Solar has provided solar power to over a million people, significantly impacting these regions.
Altech, another leading solar company based in Congo, is also making strides in providing power to areas where less than 20% of the population has access to electricity. Co-founders Washikala Malango and Iongwa Mashangao, who grew up in refugee camps relying on kerosene, founded Altech in 2013 to address the power challenges they faced. The company now operates in 23 out of 26 provinces in Congo, with plans to expand further by the end of the year.
These initiatives are not only improving access to electricity but also positively impacting communities by reducing reliance on harmful fuels like kerosene and providing a stable power source for the first time to many households. The repayment rates for these services are high, indicating the value that solar power companies bring to these underserved regions.