As solarisation projects accelerate across Africa under the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the body is calling on Indian businesses to step up and support the continent’s clean energy transition. A senior ISA official highlighted the need to build on the goodwill already established by the Indian government.
30 Projects Across Africa in the Pipeline
The ISA, co-founded by India, has scaled up efforts to bring solar energy to underserved regions in Africa. According to Barakat Ahmed, Regional Programs Head – Africa at ISA, there are currently 30 projects either underway or in development. These include solarising schools, health centres, government buildings, cold storage systems, and water pumps.
India Well-Positioned to Lead Africa’s Solar Transition
Ahmed emphasised that India’s experience in rural solar electrification, coupled with strong diplomatic ties, uniquely positions Indian firms to drive Africa’s green energy agenda. “India’s footprint in Africa is already strong, and if the private sector joins hands with the public effort, it could transform the continent’s energy future. This is a win-win for both sides,” he said.
Growing Interest from Indian Firms
The ISA official acknowledged increasing engagement from Indian businesses, noting that four firms had approached the organisation just last month. However, many remain hesitant due to perceived on-ground risks. “That’s where the ISA comes in — to de-risk the investment environment and facilitate partnerships,” he added.
ISA is in discussions with 7–10 African countries, including Ethiopia, Guinea, Mauritius, Zambia, Niger, and Mali, for large-scale solar projects ranging from USD 50 million to USD 400 million. These are seen as key opportunities for Indian private sector participation.
Addressing Africa’s Energy Access Gaps
With over 600 million people in Africa still without electricity, Ahmed highlighted that grid-based expansion alone is not feasible. Decentralised solar systems—such as rooftop panels and home kits—are the most viable solution to bridge this gap.
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ISA’s Global Training and Engagement Push
Speaking from Mauritius, where ISA is hosting a Solar X Accelerator workshop, Ahmed said that 35 entrepreneurs from around the world are undergoing advanced training in solar energy. ISA now has 123 member countries, with 38 of the 46 African members actively engaged—20 of whom joined just last year.
Policy and Capacity Building for Sustainable Growth
Despite growing traction, funding gaps, technical limitations, and policy infrastructure challenges persist in many African countries. ISA is helping governments draft solar energy policies and design bankable projects, especially in Uganda, Djibouti, and Nigeria.CII-GBC Pushes for Green Spaces in Infra Projects
The ISA is expanding its STAR-C (Solar Technology Application Resource-Centres) initiative, which currently operates in seven countries and will soon grow to ten. These centres train government officials, engineers, and businesses to maintain and manage solar installations over the long term.
Aligning with Africa’s Continental Energy Vision
ISA is also supporting Africa’s broader energy goals, including integration into the African Union’s continental master plan for cross-border electricity transmission. Ivory Coast already transmits power to five neighbouring countries, with similar initiatives underway elsewhere.
Reported by ANI.
