More than 600 million Africans are likely to remain without access to electricity in 2025, mostly in rural, off-grid, and unofficial urban areas. However, this lack of energy availability allows innovation and market expansion for portable power solutions. Small-scale energy storage technologies, solar power systems, and portable generators can close the gap and improve the continent's energy supply and economy.
Portable electricity solutions are becoming increasingly important to Africa's socioeconomic development. Rural electricity, healthcare, education, and commercial development all depend on these solutions.
Starting in 2025, the selection of portable energy solutions is expected to improve immensely in terms of technology, scalability, and price, changing the energy landscape in Africa for the better by 2035. It is difficult to overestimate the contribution these solutions have made to reducing energy poverty, promoting economic expansion, and raising millions of Africans' living standards. Through an analysis of market trends, technology developments, and real-world case studies, this blog investigates the primary growth imperatives for portable power solutions throughout Africa.
Africa is experiencing a severe energy crisis as of 2023; 600 million people there do not have access to power, which is much less than the global average. An astounding 43% of people in rural Sub-Saharan Africa are entirely off the grid, while only 45% of the continent has consistent access to electricity. Africa's (economic and social) progress is hampered by this energy imbalance.
For basic tasks like heating, cooking, and lighting, many people rely on dangerous and inefficient energy sources like firewood, kerosene lamps, and biomass fuels. However, these energy sources cause air pollution and deforestation, and they have a severe effect on health. Women and children are particularly affected by firewood collection, which limits their access to economic and educational opportunities.
The lack of electricity also stifles business growth, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and disrupts essential services such as healthcare and education. While off-grid community entrepreneurs frequently experience power interruptions, rural healthcare facilities encounter equipment and vaccine storage challenges. Because schools lack the resources necessary for digital education, the gap between educational chances in urban and rural areas widens.
However, the energy landscape is gradually changing. Portable power options, such as microgrids, home systems, and solar-powered lamps, are becoming viable and expandable substitutes. These solutions are perfect for places without dependable grid connectivity since they are flexible, inexpensive, and easy to implement. Portable power systems can provide relief right away and are adaptable enough to change to local conditions, unlike traditional electrical grids that require a large infrastructure investment.
With major advancements in solar energy technology, solar power is becoming a top substitute for traditional grid systems. Solar energy has become more inexpensive as solar panel prices have dropped and their efficiency has increased. Solar energy is a viable answer to Africa's energy needs because of the continent's high levels of sunshine exposure, especially in the areas close to the equator.
Kenya stands out as a success story in Africa's energy transition. Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) solar firm M-KOPA Solar has transformed Kenyan rural electrification. M-KOPA has given more than 1.5 million houses access to reasonably priced solar solutions by enabling consumers to pay for solar systems in modest installments using mobile phones. The low-income homes that generally couldn't afford solar power can now receive it. M-KOPA intends to increase its influence by entering nearby nations.
Other East African countries, such as Tanzania and Uganda, have also seen positive changes. Solar solutions have improved access to electricity and supported businesses, healthcare, and education. SolarNow has supplied solar systems in Uganda that run everything from freezers for commercial and medical establishments to mobile phone charging stations and home illumination. These solar-powered devices provide communities with a dependable and sustainable energy supply, particularly in places where the grid is nonexistent or unstable.
Because solar energy solutions and battery storage systems allow consumers to store excess energy at night, they offer exceptional reliability. This is extremely beneficial in areas with intermittent grid electricity. By reducing reliance on kerosene and firewood, solar power also helps reduce health risks from indoor air pollution and contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Looking ahead to 2035, the potential for portable power solutions in Africa is vast. As solar technology continues to improve, the cost of solar systems will keep falling, making them even more affordable for millions of people across the continent. With the right policies and investment, solar power and other renewable solutions could rapidly expand, creating new economic opportunities and helping to alleviate poverty.
The shift toward solar and other renewable energy sources marks a new chapter in Africa’s energy story. With affordable, sustainable energy solutions, communities across the continent will be better positioned to achieve broader development goals. Portable power solutions are poised to play a key role in reshaping Africa’s energy future and driving economic growth.
The next decade will witness significant growth in portable power solutions, driven by several key factors, including technological advancements, supportive government policies, demographic trends, and investment in off-grid energy infrastructure.
Technological advancements in solar power and energy storage are driving rapid growth in portable power solutions. Over the last decade, solar technology has become significantly more affordable and efficient, and this trend is expected to continue. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has decreased by over 80% since 2010, making solar energy one of the most cost-effective forms of electricity generation.
By 2035, the cost of solar power is expected to drop an additional 30-40% due to ongoing technological innovations. Alongside decreasing costs, solar panels are becoming increasingly efficient. This means they can produce more power in smaller spaces, opening up new possibilities for solar-powered devices. For portable power solutions, this reduction in cost and improvement in efficiency will make products like small home solar systems, portable battery packs, and solar lanterns more affordable and widely available, especially for underserved communities.
One notable example of this is d.light Solar Solutions. The company has played a crucial role in distributing solar lanterns and home solar systems across Africa. To date, d.light has reached over 100 million people across 35 countries, providing affordable solar lighting and portable power banks to those without reliable access to electricity. As solar technology continues to improve and become more affordable, companies like d.light will become even more integral in providing clean, accessible energy to millions, particularly in rural and off-grid regions.
Looking ahead, the combination of technological breakthroughs and reduced costs will drive the widespread adoption of solar-powered devices. By 2035, it is expected that solar energy will be a cornerstone in addressing global energy needs, especially in remote areas where traditional power infrastructure remains scarce. This shift will not only help bridge the energy gap but will also contribute to a more sustainable and equitable global energy landscape.
Government policies and regulatory frameworks are key to the widespread adoption of portable power solutions in Africa. With the continent facing energy infrastructure challenges and rapid population growth, governments are recognizing the importance of renewable energy. By fostering environments that support off-grid energy solutions, African governments are driving sustainable development and economic growth.
Many African governments are actively promoting policies to expand renewable energy access. These policies include incentives for private companies, subsidies for consumers, and the removal of regulatory barriers. The aim is to bridge the energy gap, improve energy security, and boost economic growth, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
A prime example is Kenya’s “Solar Power for All” program, which provides affordable solar-powered solutions to rural households and small businesses. The government’s Feed-in Tariff (FiT) system guarantees fixed payments for renewable energy producers, attracting private investment in off-grid solar technologies. As a result, Kenya has become a leader in solar energy adoption, with companies like M-KOPA Solar expanding affordable solar solutions.
South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) is another successful policy initiative. This competitive bidding program has attracted billions of dollars in private investment and boosted the country’s renewable energy capacity. The program has led to the development of large-scale solar farms and off-grid solutions, meeting the energy needs of previously underserved communities.
Other countries like Nigeria, Uganda, and Ethiopia are also integrating solar energy and other renewables into their national energy strategies. Nigeria plans to incorporate solar home systems, micro-grids, and solar-powered irrigation in rural electrification programs. Uganda’s Rural Electrification Strategy focuses on off-grid solutions to reach remote areas.
By 2035, government-driven incentives and financing models will be crucial in making portable power solutions more accessible and attractive, especially in rural areas. As more African governments promote renewable energy, the market for portable power solutions will grow, increasing energy access, reducing emissions, and fostering economic development.
Africa’s population is experiencing one of the fastest growth rates in the world. By 2035, the continent’s population will surpass 1.5 billion, with more than 50% of its people living in urban areas. This dramatic shift towards urbanization is creating significant demand for energy, particularly in cities and peri-urban regions where populations are growing rapidly. As more people move to cities, there will be an increasing need for affordable, sustainable, and reliable energy solutions to meet the needs of both households and businesses.
The urbanization trend presents a large and expanding market for portable power solutions, especially in countries where grid infrastructure is lagging behind population growth. In major cities, demand for energy will rise sharply, necessitating the widespread use of solar-powered devices, mini-grids, and battery storage solutions. These solutions can help meet the electricity demands of small businesses, households, and public services, even in regions with limited access to reliable grid power.
In rural areas, where access to electricity is even more limited, portable power solutions are becoming critical for improving livelihoods. These areas, which often lack the infrastructure found in urban settings, are increasingly adopting solar-powered technologies that offer cost-effective, sustainable alternatives. For example, solar-powered water pumps are being widely used in agriculture, improving access to water for irrigation and livestock, which is essential for food security and farming productivity. Solar home systems are also becoming a popular choice in rural regions, providing reliable lighting and energy for small appliances.
Example: Solar-Powered Irrigation in East Africa A prime example of how portable power is revolutionizing rural life is SolarNow, a company providing solar-powered irrigation solutions in Uganda and Kenya. By enabling farmers to use solar energy for irrigation, SolarNow has helped increase crop yields, reduce dependency on expensive diesel pumps, and improve the sustainability of farming operations. This shift to solar-powered irrigation has not only boosted productivity but also reduced the environmental impact associated with traditional farming practices. By 2035, such innovations are set to be a key driver of economic growth and food security across rural Africa.
The surge of private and public investments in Africa’s off-grid energy sector is accelerating the adoption of portable power solutions. These investments are creating an environment that encourages innovation, affordability, and scalability for solar technologies across the continent. One of the key factors in this expansion has been the rise of pay-as-you-go (PAYG) financing models. These models, which allow low-income households to pay for solar energy systems in small, affordable installments, have made it possible for millions of people to access clean, reliable energy without the need for large upfront payments. This approach has been a game-changer, particularly in rural areas where access to traditional financing options is limited.
According to Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF), investments in off-grid energy infrastructure in Africa are projected to surpass USD 5 billion by 2035. This influx of capital is critical for scaling up renewable energy solutions, particularly solar, and meeting the growing demand for electricity in both rural and urban areas. These investments are also helping to reduce the cost of solar devices, making them more accessible to low-income consumers who would otherwise be unable to afford them.
Example: The Role of Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) play a pivotal role in supporting off-grid energy projects across Africa. USAID and the World Bank are two key players that have helped to catalyze growth in the sector. Through Power Africa, a U.S. government initiative, USAID has invested in numerous projects that improve energy access across the continent, from solar home systems to mini-grids. These investments have enabled millions of people to access electricity and are expected to continue driving the growth of the portable power market. In addition, DFIs often provide low-interest loans and grants, which de-risk investments and attract private-sector capital into the off-grid energy space. By 2035, such investments will play a central role in achieving universal energy access across Africa, making portable solar technologies more affordable and widespread.
Over 600 million people in Africa lack access to electricity, making portable power solutions essential for addressing the continent’s energy needs, especially in off-grid areas. Solar-powered home systems, mini-grids, and portable solar devices are transforming the lives of rural Africans by providing access to lighting, mobile charging, refrigeration, and other vital services. These solutions help bridge the gap where the national grid cannot reach, improving the quality of life, health, and economic opportunities in remote areas.
The pay-as-you-go (PAYG) model has revolutionized access to solar energy by allowing customers to purchase solar systems through small, manageable installments. This flexible payment structure makes clean energy affordable for low-income households, enabling them to access solar power without the high upfront costs typically associated with renewable energy.
Companies like M-KOPA Solar, d.light, and Fenix International have pioneered this model, making solar energy accessible in off-grid areas. M-KOPA Solar, for example, has provided solar solutions to over 1.5 million households across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. These systems offer essential services, such as lighting, mobile charging, and powering small appliances, significantly improving daily life in rural communities.
By 2035, experts expect that PAYG models will reach millions more people, expanding access to affordable, clean energy across Africa. As these solutions continue to grow, they will improve energy access and contribute to the region's economic and social development. With ongoing innovation and support, solar energy will play a crucial role in driving sustainable progress for off-grid populations throughout Africa.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of many African economies. According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), SMEs make up 90% of all businesses and contribute to 60-70% of employment in Sub-Saharan Africa. For these businesses to thrive, reliable and affordable energy is crucial, and portable power solutions, including solar energy systems and portable generators, play a vital role in ensuring their success.
SMEs often face challenges related to unreliable electricity, high energy costs, and frequent power outages. These issues can significantly disrupt business operations, leading to decreased productivity and increased operational costs. In many rural and underserved areas, where the national grid is either unavailable or unreliable, portable solar solutions provide a sustainable and cost-effective alternative. These systems offer SMEs a stable energy source, helping them avoid costly interruptions and operate more efficiently.
Solar energy systems, such as small solar-powered generators, can power essential equipment like lights, computers, and refrigerators, allowing businesses to stay operational even during power outages. Additionally, the growing affordability of solar technology makes it an attractive option for SMEs looking to reduce their energy expenses. By shifting to solar energy, businesses can lower their electricity bills and reduce reliance on expensive and unreliable fossil fuel-powered generators.
In industries like agriculture, retail, and manufacturing, portable solar solutions can boost productivity by providing continuous power for operations, which, in turn, supports local economies and job creation. As solar technology continues to improve and become more affordable, SMEs will increasingly turn to these renewable energy solutions to enhance their competitiveness and contribute to sustainable economic growth across Africa.
Portable power solutions are crucial in improving healthcare services across Africa. Rural clinics often struggle with unreliable electricity, which makes it difficult to store vaccines, operate medical equipment, and provide lighting for night-time services. Solar-powered solutions have already made a significant impact in improving healthcare delivery in remote regions.
In Zambia, for example, SolarAid has provided solar-powered lighting and refrigeration to over 1,000 health facilities. These solar-powered medical refrigerators play a vital role in storing life-saving vaccines, ensuring they remain viable in rural areas where the national grid is either unreliable or unavailable. With reliable solar power, these clinics can store vaccines at the correct temperatures, providing consistent healthcare for communities that might otherwise have limited access to essential medical services.
Additionally, solar-powered lighting ensures that healthcare workers can provide services after dark, which is particularly important in rural areas with limited access to electricity. This allows for extended hours of operation, enabling clinics to serve more patients and improve overall healthcare outcomes.
As solar energy becomes more affordable and accessible, its role in transforming healthcare delivery in Africa will continue to grow. Solar-powered solutions not only enhance the quality of care in remote areas but also reduce reliance on costly and polluting diesel generators, offering a sustainable alternative. With further expansion, these solutions can help improve healthcare access, save lives, and contribute to the long-term development of Africa’s health sector.
| Factor | 2025 (Predicted) / 2035 (Projected) |
|---|---|
| Energy Access | 50% of Africa’s population has access to electricity (2025) 80% of Africa’s population has access to electricity (2035) |
| Cost of Solar Panels | USD 0.20–USD 0.30 per watt (2025) USD 0.10–USD 0.12 per watt (2035) |
| Adoption of Solar Home Systems | 30% adoption rate in off-grid areas (2025) 70% adoption rate in off-grid areas (2035) |
| Investment in Off-Grid Energy | USD 1.2 billion invested annually (2025) USD 5 billion invested annually (2035) |
| Rural Electrification | 50 million people using solar solutions (2025) 250 million people using solar solutions (2035) |
| SME Adoption of Portable Power | 20% of SMEs use portable power solutions (2025) 60% of SMEs use portable power solutions (2035) |
| Mobile Solar Solutions Market | USD 1 billion industry (2025) USD 10 billion industry (2035) |
| Battery Storage Technology Adoption | Limited adoption, primarily in pilot regions (2025) Widespread adoption, particularly in off-grid areas (2035) |
| Mini-Grid Deployment | 10,000 mini-grids operational across Africa (2025) 100,000 mini-grids operational across Africa (2035) |
| Government Incentives and Subsidies | Limited in some regions (2025) Broad government incentives and subsidies across the continent (2035) |
The table reveals the anticipated evolution of Africa’s energy access from 2025 to 2035, underscoring significant improvements in energy availability across the continent. By 2035, the share of Africa’s population with electricity access is expected to grow substantially. This shift will be driven by the increasing adoption of affordable and efficient solar-powered systems. As portable power solutions such as solar home systems become more widely available, rural and off-grid areas will experience a dramatic boost in energy access, facilitating improvements in quality of life, business operations, and education.
The solar industry will also undergo a notable transformation in terms of cost and investment. By 2035, solar panel costs will continue to decrease as advancements in technology drive production efficiencies. This reduction in prices will directly impact the affordability of solar-powered devices, ensuring that even low-income households can benefit from these solutions. At the same time, substantial investments will flow into Africa’s off-grid energy sector, fueling the expansion of portable power solutions. These investments will not only increase the scalability of these systems but also improve their reliability and accessibility, making them an attractive option for both rural and urban communities.
The growth of solar solutions will significantly impact businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs). By 2035, a much larger portion of SMEs will rely on portable power to sustain their operations, with solar energy offering a cost-effective and reliable alternative to traditional grid power. The proliferation of mini-grids will also play a critical role in supporting local businesses by providing affordable electricity in areas where grid power is not yet accessible. Additionally, government incentives and subsidies will play a pivotal role in the widespread adoption of portable power, with policies designed to make renewable energy solutions accessible and economically viable for both consumers and businesses across Africa.
Despite the positive trends, challenges remain that could hinder the widespread adoption of portable power solutions:
Affordability remains one of the major challenges for the widespread adoption of portable power solutions in Africa. While the cost of solar technology has decreased significantly over the past decade, the initial capital required for purchasing solar home systems, batteries, and related devices can still be prohibitive for many low-income households. Despite these technological advancements, many families in rural and underserved areas continue to face financial barriers, preventing them from accessing even the most affordable solar products. To bridge this gap, innovative financing models, such as pay-as-you-go (PAYG) systems and microloans, must expand. PAYG solutions, which allow customers to pay for solar products in small installments, have already proven effective in places like Kenya, but scaling these models across the entire continent is essential to increase accessibility.
Additionally, the reliance on traditional financing methods, such as outright purchases or expensive credit options, has limited the adoption of clean energy solutions. Without broader access to affordable financing mechanisms, millions of households will remain without reliable, renewable power sources. Therefore, governments, financial institutions, and energy providers must collaborate to create more robust financing structures and incentives to make portable power systems affordable for all. By continuing to innovate in payment models and working to reduce the overall cost of solar systems, the affordability barrier can be significantly lowered, enabling more households and businesses to transition to clean energy.
Logistics and Distribution present a significant challenge for the widespread deployment of portable power solutions in Africa. Remote areas, particularly those in rural or hard-to-reach regions, are often left out of traditional supply chains due to inadequate infrastructure, long distances, and high transportation costs. Ensuring that solar products reach these areas in a cost-effective and timely manner is crucial for expanding access to energy. Without an efficient distribution network, even the most affordable and innovative solar solutions cannot be effectively delivered to the people who need them the most.
To overcome these logistical barriers, local manufacturing and partnerships with regional distributors must become a priority. Establishing manufacturing hubs within Africa can reduce transportation costs, promote job creation, and increase the availability of solar products. Additionally, collaborating with local distributors who understand the unique challenges and needs of their communities can help optimize the distribution process. These partnerships will enable energy solutions to penetrate underserved areas, ensuring that off-grid communities receive the products, services, and maintenance support they need. With the right logistics and distribution infrastructure in place, the adoption of portable power solutions across Africa can be accelerated, addressing one of the key hurdles to energy access.
Inconsistent policies and unclear regulations are major challenges that hinder the growth of mini-grids and off-grid solutions. Governments in many regions have yet to establish standardized frameworks that provide clear guidelines for the development, deployment, and operation of portable power systems. The lack of a cohesive regulatory environment creates confusion among stakeholders, including developers, investors, and consumers. This uncertainty discourages investment and slows down the adoption of innovative off-grid solutions, which are crucial for providing energy access to underserved areas. Without consistent policies, the market remains fragmented, making it difficult for companies to scale operations and expand their reach.
Governments must actively refine and implement policies that foster the growth of the portable power market. Clear regulations are essential to create a level playing field and ensure that all players in the industry operate under uniform guidelines. By offering tax incentives, streamlined licensing processes, and funding for research and development, governments can accelerate the transition to more sustainable and affordable energy systems. Furthermore, establishing transparent and reliable standards will not only encourage investment but also build trust among local communities, ensuring that mini-grids and off-grid solutions can deliver long-term, reliable energy access.
Portable power solutions will transform Africa's energy landscape from 2025 to 2035. The sector will expand from serving 50 million to 250 million people, driven by falling technology costs, supportive policies, and increasing investment. Solar solutions will empower SMEs, enable healthcare improvements, and advance agricultural capabilities through innovative financing models like PAYG.
Success depends on technological innovation, affordable financing, stronger distribution networks, and consistent regulations. While affordability and distribution challenges persist, the growth trajectory promises universal energy access and economic empowerment. Portable power solutions will become central to Africa's sustainable development, potentially serving as a model for other developing regions.
