Why does one country look ideal for wind farms while its neighbour leans towards solar? The answer is rarely just about the weather. Geography sets the starting point, but grids, institutions and money decide what can actually be built. Our Country Notes look at these factors country by country across Africa, in general terms and without figures. Before relying on any detail, check current official sources such as national energy ministries, regulators and utilities.
The geography
- Coastlines. Trade winds and sea breezes can make coasts productive for wind, and shallow shelves may open up offshore options.
- Highlands and ridges. Air speeds up over hills and through gaps between mountains, so elevated plateaus and passes are often promising for turbines.
- Deserts and drylands. Clear skies make for strong sunshine, though heat, dust and distance from towns bring their own challenges.
- The tropics. Many equatorial regions have good sun but gentler winds, with cloud and rainy seasons affecting solar output.
- Islands. Small island states often rely on imported fuel, which makes local wind and sun attractive, but small grids limit how much variable power they can absorb at once.
The grid
A large, well-connected grid can spread variable wind and solar across many users and balance them with other sources. A small or fragmented grid finds that harder. Where many people live far from any grid, mini-grids and stand-alone solar systems can play a bigger role than large wind farms.
The money and the rules
Wind and solar projects cost a lot to build and very little to run, so the cost and availability of finance matter enormously. Investors look at whether power will be bought reliably, whether rules are stable, and how currency risks are handled. Clear planning processes and land rights also make a difference.
Browse the country notes
A selection to start with:
- North Africa: Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya
- West Africa: Senegal, Ghana, Nigeria, Mauritania, Cape Verde
- East Africa and the Horn: Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Djibouti, Eritrea
- Central Africa: Cameroon, DR Congo, Gabon, Chad
- Southern Africa: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zambia, Lesotho
- Indian Ocean: Madagascar, Somalia
New to the subject? Start with Wind Basics and Solar Power Basics, then come back to compare countries.