China's prowess in solar aids Africa's green transition

Powering the future

Energy shortages are a common issue faced by many African countries. By 2030, 660 million people worldwide will be without electricity, most of whom live in the sub-Saharan region, according to an International Energy Agency report.

Africa possesses abundant renewable energy resources, with solar, wind, and hydropower reserves accounting for 40 percent, 32 percent and 12 percent of global reserves respectively, and offering enormous potential for renewable energy development.

Data released by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) showed that between 2011 and 2020, Africa's solar installed capacity achieved an annual growth rate of 54 percent, which is two and a half times that of wind energy, nearly four times that of geothermal, and almost 17 times that of hydropower.

"Currently, solar energy is the fastest-growing renewable energy in Africa and has become a key area of China-Africa clean energy cooperation," said Mao.

China and African countries are continuously innovating cooperation models in the field of solar and other clean energy to better adapt to the current economic and social development of Africa, Mao added.