East Africa holds vast untapped solar potential, particularly in regions where electricity access remains limited.
In Kenya, for example, a significant portion of the estimated 13 million unserved population resides in areas with high solar irradiation, which makes them the perfect candidates for off-grid energy solutions—therefore, systems that don’t rely on the national power grid.
In Tanzania, clean energy initiatives, including large-scale solar projects, are poised to benefit millions, with at least a quarter of underserved regions identified as viable for renewable deployment, according to the National Renewable Energy Strategy (2024–2034).
Furthermore, Uganda has made notable strides, expanding electricity access to over eight million people since 2016, with renewables playing a central role in reaching remote communities.
There is no doubt that harnessing the above potential is key to improving lives, driving economic growth, and building sustainable communities.
The feasibility of solar
Taking one step back, across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, renewable energy sources such as hydropower and geothermal already play a significant role in the countries’ respective national grids. In fact, Kenya’s Olkaria geothermal complex, located in the Kenyan Rift Valley, is one of the largest on the continent.
However, in many remote and rural areas, extending traditional infrastructure is expensive and logistically challenging. Thus, within this context, off grid offers a truly, practical, scalable, and cost-effective solution.
Solar installations can be deployed quickly, require minimal maintenance, plus, when combined with modern battery or hybrid systems, they deliver reliable and continuous power. These attributes make solar the go-to option for communities that are entirely off-grid or reliant on unreliable supply.
Leveraging technology for sustainability
Designing a solar solution is only part of the challenge; ensuring it works reliably for years is equally important.
Remote monitoring not only improves operational sustainability but also builds transparency. It provides a real-time understanding of impact to funders which can experience how their see their investment is delivering ongoing results, while communities benefit from faster maintenance response times.”
Though East Africa’s context differs, elements of these models, such as centralized power systems supporting multiple community services, are undoubtedly relevant. The ability to replicate and adapt proven concepts accelerates deployment and increases impact.
By Ayush Gupta, Director – Global Strategy & Business Anglophone Africa, Access to Energy at Schneider Electric
