Solar Power in Africa

Globally, over 660 million people lack electricity, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa, exemplified by Washikala Malango’s experience in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Malango’s childhood without electricity, reliant on kerosene lamps, motivated him and a friend to launch a solar kit startup, Altech, aiming to provide reliable energy to off-grid communities. Despite Africa’s abundant sunshine, only 21.5 gigawatts of solar capacity exists, hampered by issues like scattered populations, inadequate national grids, high infrastructure costs, and political instability. Large-scale projects like the “11 Countries Solar Project” are underway but face significant delays due to conflict and funding challenges. Numerous smaller startups, such as Altech, M-Kopa, and others, are addressing the gap with pay-as-you-go solar systems, reaching millions and offering crucial access to electricity and improved quality of life. These decentralized solutions are increasingly vital for energy equity, particularly given the continent’s youth demographic and the interconnected challenges of poverty and lack of power.