Solar Photovoltaics in Sub-Saharan Africa - Addressing Barriers, Unlocking Potential

Abstract

Africa is endowed with significant amounts of renewable energy (RE) resources, including solar energy. It receives some of the highest levels of annual radiation globally. Yet Africa remains the poorest region of the world, in terms of energy access - in contrast with its endowment. This reality, of abundant sunlight, leads some to have an almost fairy-tale idea about solar photovoltaic (PV) technology and its current role in enhancing access to energy in Africa. In this paper, some of the barriers facing solar PV energy systems development in most countries in Africa are discussed, and recommendation are made on how to address some of these barriers.