Chinese Solar Exports To Africa Surging

By Semafor Africa Photo: Wikimedia Commons Chinese solar exports to Africa in April surged 83% year-on-year, as the energy crisis sparked by the Iran war fuels a surge in global demand for renewable energy. A glut in production in China has led to a collapse in prices for solar panels and parts in recent years, and Beijing is increasingly betting on the African market, where 600 million people still lack access to electricity: South Africa, the biggest purchaser of solar cells and panels, saw an 81% increase last month compared to the year prior, Reuters reported. With its abundant sunshine, Africa holds roughly 60% of the world’s solar energy potential, but generates only about 1% of global solar power. The ongoing Strait of Hormuz blockade has, meanwhile, driven oil price rises and exposed the continent’s dependence on fossil fuel imports.

Chinese Solar Exports To Africa Surging

By Semafor Africa

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Chinese solar exports to Africa in April surged 83% year-on-year, as the energy crisis sparked by the Iran war fuels a surge in global demand for renewable energy.

A glut in production in China has led to a collapse in prices for solar panels and parts in recent years, and Beijing is increasingly betting on the African market, where 600 million people still lack access to electricity: South Africa, the biggest purchaser of solar cells and panels, saw an 81% increase last month compared to the year prior, Reuters reported.

With its abundant sunshine, Africa holds roughly 60% of the world’s solar energy potential, but generates only about 1% of global solar power.

The ongoing Strait of Hormuz blockade has, meanwhile, driven oil price rises and exposed the continent’s dependence on fossil fuel imports.