Home / Environment / Africa's Green Energy Surge Raises Hopes, but Financing Gap Remains Crucial
Africa's Green Energy Surge Raises Hopes, but Financing Gap Remains Crucial
8 Sep
Summary
- Africa breaks solar energy import records, with 60% rise in 12 months
- Continent needs $70 billion annually to adapt to climate crisis, but only $15 billion provided in 2023
- Private sector investment in renewables welcomed, but public funding for adaptation is lacking
In the past year, Africa has seen a surge in renewable energy investment, with 20 countries breaking records for solar panel imports. According to the think tank Ember, imports of photovoltaic equipment from China rose by 60% in the 12 months leading up to June 2025, from 9MW in 2024 to 15MW of capacity. This impressive increase, however, is from a low base, as Africa has lagged behind other regions in solar power installations.
Despite the recent progress, Africa still faces a vast financing gap to adapt to the impacts of the climate crisis. A report published at the Africa Climate Summit on September 6th, 2025, showed that the continent needs at least $70 billion per year to adapt, but only $15 billion was provided in adaptation finance in 2023. Without urgent action to address this shortfall, Africa's future costs from climate impacts could wipe out a fifth of its GDP by 2050.
While the private sector is increasingly investing in renewable energy projects, public sector funding and international aid are still vital to support Africa's adaptation efforts. Experts warn that if rich countries fail to provide the necessary financing, the impacts of the climate crisis will be felt globally, with potential consequences for migration and development.
