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Africa's solar PV capacity could exceed 70 GW by 2030

According to a study from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the installed costs for power generated by utility-scale solar PV projects in Africa have decreased by more than 60% since 2012 thanks to rapidly declining technology costs. The costs for utility-scale solar PV projects in Africa (US$1,300/kW) are even 27% lower than the global costs of US$1,800/kW.



According to IRENA, mini-grids utilising solar PV and off-grid solar home systems provide higher quality energy services at the same or lower costs than the alternatives. Stand-alone solar PV mini-grids have installed costs in Africa of US$1,900/kW for systems larger than 200 kW, while solar home systems (off-grid households installations) costs amount to US$56/year, which is less than what African people currently pay for poor quality energy services.



IRENA emphasises on the fact that theses cost reductions, combined with the abundant solar potential on the continent, present a huge opportunity for Africa. Both grid-connected and off-grid solar PV has become cost-competitive and then could easier bringing electricity to the 600 million Africans who currently lack access.



More than 800 MW of solar PV capacity was added in Africa in 2014 and 750 MW in 2015, reaching a total of 2,100 MW at the end of 2015. The Agency estimates that Africa's solar PV installed capacity could exceed 70 GW by 2030.