South Africa Solar Energy GW Level

How much solar power does South Africa have?

South Africa's cumulative solar capacity surpassed 9.4 GW by mid-2025, according to figures from the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA). The country also has a solar project pipeline in excess of 10 GW. South Africa added approximately 928 MW of solar during the first quarter of this year, according to estimates from SAPVIA.

How much solar power will South Africa have by 2039?

Image: South African government via Flickr. South Africa plans to add 28.7GW of new solar PV generation capacity by 2039, en route to generating more than half of its domestic electricity with renewable sources by 2042.

How many solar projects are there in South Africa?

SAPVIA told pv magazine that as of mid-2025, South Africa's cumulative solar capacity is estimated at 9,457 MW. “There is a healthy pipeline of projects, with solar comprising 10,078 MW of a total 14.9 GW as of July 2025” the association added. “Moreover, there are an additional 11 projects from the REIPPPP that are still under construction.”

Why does South Africa need more electricity generation capacity?

All of this additional generation capacity is great for South Africa, as it helps alleviate some of the electricity generation challenges the country has been facing over the past decade. South Africa has a nominal installed electricity generation capacity (utility-scale plants only) of 54.7 GW, 72.4% of which is from coal power plants.