Africa’s Renewable Capacity Rises to 82GW Despite Limited Global Share

Africa recorded its strongest expansion in renewable energy capacity in 2025, reaching a total of 82 gigawatts, but its contribution to global growth remains marginal, according to new data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

IRENA's Renewable Capacity Statistics 2026 revealed that renewable capacity on the continent grew by 15.9 per cent, marking the highest increase recorded in recent years.

The growth was driven mainly by a few countries, including Ethiopia, South Africa and Egypt, which continue to lead renewable energy development across the continent.

However, Africa added only 11.3 gigawatts of new renewable capacity during the period, representing just 1.6 per cent of total global additions, highlighting persistent disparities in the global energy transition.

Globally, renewable energy additions reached 692 gigawatts in 2025, with solar energy accounting for about 510 gigawatts, reinforcing its position as the fastest-growing source of power.

Renewable energy now represents nearly 49 per cent of global installed electricity capacity, reflecting a significant transformation in the global energy mix.

Within Africa, hydropower remains the dominant source of renewable energy, although solar deployment is gradually increasing, particularly in areas with limited grid infrastructure.

Nigeria’s renewable energy capacity stood at just over 3,200 megawatts, indicating gradual progress but also underscoring the scale of investment required to meet rising electricity demand.

The report emphasised the need for faster expansion of renewable energy infrastructure across Africa to address energy access challenges and support sustainable development.