Solar Power Revolutionizes Energy Access in Central and West Africa

Solar power companies are rapidly expanding in Central and West Africa, bringing electricity to millions in regions where 600 million people still lack access. These often African-owned businesses operate in areas with low electrification rates, offering products ranging from solar-powered lamps to complete home systems.

In West Africa, where 220 million people live without power, electrification rates can be as low as 8%. The International Energy Agency reports that while these companies are making progress, more investment is needed to reach all African homes and businesses by 2030.
Easy Solar, a locally owned firm operating in Sierra Leone and Liberia, has brought power to over a million people since 2016. Co-founder Nthabiseng Mosia, inspired by her experiences with power cuts in Ghana, aims to reach the most remote rural areas. In Congo, where less than 20% of the population has electricity access, Altech has sold over a million solar products across 23 of 26 provinces.

Founded by former refugees Washikala Malango and Iongwa Mashangao, Altech addresses power problems they experienced in refugee camps. These companies offer solutions ranging from under $20 for solar lamps to thousands for home appliances and entertainment systems, significantly improving living conditions and reducing reliance on dangerous fuels like kerosene.

The growth of these solar companies aligns with the global goal of tripling renewable power generation capacity by 2050, as agreed at the last UN climate summit. While Africa is responsible for minimal carbon emissions relative to its size, solar power has become a cost-effective way to provide electricity to millions of homes and businesses across the continent.