In a bid to fully adopt renewable energy and keep pace with the global clean energy revolution, Africa is emerging as a pioneer in deploying solar, wind, and geothermal energy on a large scale.
With vast solar potential, the continent added 2.5 gigawatt-peak (GWp) of solar capacity in 2024, and projections estimate an impressive 194.34 GWp by 2025. Africa is fast becoming a global hotspot for solar energy expansion.
This shift has created significant opportunities for diverse commercial and industrial (C&I) sectors, with photovoltaic (PV) systems being installed at businesses, educational institutions, and government facilities to meet their own energy demands.
Dr. Andrew Dickson, Engineering Executive at CBi-electric: low voltage, attributes Africa’s rapid solar adoption to the rising energy demand. He notes that energy poverty remains a critical issue across the continent, with reliable grid electricity reaching only about 14% of the population, evident in the daily struggles faced by citizens in countries like Zimbabwe.
CBi-electric: low voltage, a manufacturer and supplier of low-voltage electrical distribution and protection equipment, has been a household name for over 75 years. The company supplies solutions to utilities, commercial developers, industrial clients, mining operations, telecommunications, and general power distribution networks.
Dr. Dickson highlights how persistent nationwide blackouts are disrupting operations in countries like Botswana. Meanwhile, hydroelectric-dependent nations such as Zambia are facing reduced water levels due to climate change, which has led to diminished electricity generation and rising energy costs.
With deep expertise in the Southern African region, CBi-electric: low voltage understands the region’s energy challenges and continues to offer tailored solutions. In Namibia, for example, reliance on electricity imports is growing more expensive.
Between January 2024 and December 2025, the country is expected to spend N$8.8 billion on imported electricity, making it the costliest electricity market in Southern Africa.
Yet, Namibia holds a geographical advantage: its solar PV systems can generate twice the electricity of comparable systems in Central Europe.
Its evident that not only some but majority of the African nations are now proactively investing in solar to reduce grid dependency.
“Malawi is rolling out its National Compact for Energy, which creates a competitive framework for private-sector investment in off-grid solar through grants, subsidies, and credit lines that improve access to foreign exchange,” Dr. Dickson explains.
Safeguarding Solar Investments
As Africa’s solar market expands in 2025, organizations have an opportunity to capitalize on its long-term benefits.
One major driver of this shift to wider adoption and boom of solar has been its cost-effectiveness. Dr. Dickson notes that on-site solar is now cheaper than the electricity tariffs paid by C&I clients in at least seven sub-Saharan markets.
He references Green Cape research showing that solar PV can cut business energy costs by 15%, with returns on investment achieved within three to 12 years. After this period, businesses could benefit from up to 15 years of free electricity.
However, unlocking these savings requires adequate protection of system components.
“Voltage spikes caused by lightning or grid instability can seriously damage inverters and batteries,” he cautions. “Installing surge protection devices (SPDs) is essential, not only to prevent damage but also to avoid voiding manufacturer warranties.”
Another key risk is arcing. “When electrical currents jump across gaps, the resulting heat can damage components or even cause fires,” he explains.
“DC circuit breakers, specifically designed for solar systems, are critical for managing this risk. These breakers are built to handle the direct current generated by PV panels, ensuring safer and more reliable operation.”
Smart Technology for Smarter Solar Use
In addition to physical protection, Dr. Dickson urges businesses to embrace smart energy management tools to extend system life and optimize performance.
“A smart power indicator can detect grid interruptions and send instant alerts, enabling businesses to act quickly. These systems can temporarily disconnect non-essential high-energy devices during an outage to prevent overload and conserve battery life. At the same time, they ensure that essential systems like lighting and security remain operational.”
Optimizing Solar ROI in 2025
According to Dr. Dickson, the key to unlocking Solar’s full potential lies in strategic system design and proper management.
“By combining surge protection, DC breakers, and monitoring tools, businesses can reduce unexpected costs, minimize downtime, and extend the life of their investment,” he says.
“As Africa’s solar market continues its upward trajectory in 2025, organizations have a real opportunity to tap into its long-term benefits. With the right technologies and safeguards in place, solar energy is more than just a clean alternative, it’s a strategic asset that pays off.”
