Featured in Tipping point – 11-2023

Consolidating growth in Africa

Across Africa, rooftop solar is stepping in to fill the void as fears of non-payment and inflation-reduced donor funding dampen enthusiasm for big solar. Commercial and industrial (C&I) arrays are leading the charge, driving consolidation in markets overstocked with startup and mid-size installers, as Max Hall discovers.

By

Max Hall

09 Nov 2023

On-site solar and storage ensures reliable electricity supply for businesses at the Midway Square Industrial Park in South Africa. | Image: Renen Energy Solutions

As high interest rates, cost of living crises, and the financial disruption caused by war in Europe eat into aid budgets, expansion of Africa’s energy networks is increasingly falling to small solar arrays, with C&I systems leading the way.The previous emphasis on big solar projects funded by developed countries is making way for a commercial …

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