Thabo Nkosi 
Solar-powered EV charging could solve two major challenges in Africa: unreliable electricity access for over 600 million people and high transportation emissions (10% of the continent’s greenhouse gases). By leveraging abundant sunlight, solar charging stations provide clean, reliable energy for electric vehicles (EVs), cutting fuel costs and reducing dependency on imported oil.
Key highlights:
- Cost Savings: EVs, especially two-wheelers, are up to 25% cheaper to operate over five years compared to gas-powered vehicles.
- Real-World Impact: Projects like The Gambia’s Solar Taxi and Nigeria’s solar stations have shown increased earnings and reduced emissions.
- Infrastructure Challenges: High setup costs, unreliable grids, and technical barriers remain issues, but solutions like battery-swapping and off-grid systems are gaining traction.
- Economic Growth: Solar EV initiatives create jobs, reduce fuel imports, and support local industries.
Although challenges exist, solar-powered EV charging is proving to be a practical and impactful solution for clean energy and transportation in Africa.
Solar-Powered EV Charging in Africa: Key Statistics and Impact
UYILO E-Mobility Programme | South Africa’s Solar-Powered EV Charger: The True African Solution
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Why Solar EV Charging Works for Africa
Africa’s abundant sunlight and rising fuel costs create a perfect scenario for solar EV charging. With its plentiful solar energy, unreliable power grids, and increasing fossil fuel prices, the continent is uniquely positioned to benefit from solar-powered charging solutions for electric vehicles (EVs).
Africa’s High Solar Energy Potential
Africa’s location along the equator ensures a steady supply of solar radiation, making it ideal for photovoltaic systems. Frequent grid interruptions further highlight the need for alternative energy solutions. To put it into perspective, the average annual grid interruption rate in Africa (SAIDI 39.30) dwarfs that of high-income OECD countries (SAIDI 0.87). This makes solar-integrated systems more cost-effective, with a payback period of 4.2 years compared to 6.8 years for grid-only systems. Solar-powered charging stations bypass grid issues, providing reliable energy access when drivers need it most.
In South Africa, solar power is already making strides. Around 42% of public chargers in the GridCars network are solar-powered. A notable milestone came in November 2024, when Zero Carbon Charge launched its first fully off-grid, solar-powered EV charging station in Wolmaransstad, North West Province. The company plans to expand by installing 157 off-grid stations, spaced every 93 miles along major roads, backed by $5.5 million in funding from the Development Bank of Southern Africa. Larissa Venter, Chief Stakeholder Officer at Zero Carbon Charge, explained their approach:
"We are completely off-grid… we do not have a middleman selling electricity, which if you’re grid-dependent, you are subject to inflation increases".
This growing solar infrastructure is a crucial step toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Cutting Fossil Fuel Imports
Transportation accounts for 10% of Africa’s greenhouse gas emissions, much of which comes from burning imported fossil fuels. Solar-powered EV charging offers a way to cut this dependency, shielding economies and drivers from the unpredictable nature of oil prices. In Uganda, for instance, transportation consumes 19% of the nation’s total energy.
The switch to electric vehicles can lead to major cost savings. In Kenya, a motorbike rider slashed daily operating costs by over 50%, spending just $2.50 on charging compared to $7.75 for petrol. Over a five-year period, electric two-wheelers in Sub-Saharan Africa are estimated to be 25% cheaper than their internal combustion engine counterparts, thanks to lower fuel and maintenance costs. In November 2025, CrossBoundary Energy secured Kenya’s first solar-to-charging station generation license in Kitengela, Kajiado County. This station supports battery swapping and charging, offering stable costs for electric two-wheeler operators while avoiding the volatility of petrol prices.
Beyond cost savings, solar EV charging can also provide energy solutions to underserved areas.
Bringing Power to Rural Areas
An estimated 600 million people in Africa currently lack access to electricity. Yet, many of these communities rely on transportation to connect producers with markets. Solar-powered EV charging can address both energy and mobility challenges. By using surplus solar power during peak hours, EVs can act as flexible loads for rural minigrids, reducing the need for costly stationary battery storage and improving the financial viability of these systems.
This approach has the potential to transform rural energy access. In Uganda, where more than 90% of energy consumption is derived from biomass like firewood and charcoal due to limited grid access, solar charging stations offer a cleaner, more sustainable alternative. Companies like Ampersand in Rwanda are leading the way by creating networks of battery-swapping stations. These stations allow two-wheeler drivers to quickly exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones, eliminating the need for personal charging setups in areas with unreliable or nonexistent grid power.
What Solar EV Charging Stations Cost
When it comes to solar-powered EV charging stations, understanding the costs involved is crucial for evaluating their long-term value. The total investment depends on factors like installation location, equipment choices, and whether the system is grid-tied or fully off-grid.
Upfront Setup Costs
Building a solar-powered EV charging station involves several key components: a solar PV array, an inverter or charge controller, battery storage (for off-grid setups), EV charging ports, and specialized wiring. For example, in Africa, utility-scale solar PV installations cost around $1.30 per watt, while standalone mini-grids larger than 200 kW are priced closer to $1.90 per watt.
The charging hardware itself is a significant expense. Level 2 chargers, suitable for workplaces and retail locations, typically cost between $3,500 and $15,000 per port. Meanwhile, DC Fast Chargers, which are much faster, range from $18,000 to over $350,000 per port. A pilot project in The Gambia demonstrated that even a modest 4.5 kWp solar array could adequately power a commercial electric minivan, showing that smaller systems can work in specific scenarios.
Installation costs vary widely depending on site conditions. Factors like electrical upgrades, transformer needs, and site preparation can add to the expense. However, locating charging stations near existing electrical panels or solar inverters can help reduce costs. Additionally, using existing structures, such as parking shelters for mounting solar panels, can eliminate land acquisition expenses.
For instance, a hybrid station built in Sokoto, Nigeria, with 174 kW of solar panels, two wind turbines, and 380 batteries, required an initial investment of $449,134. Its total net present cost came to $547,717.
Once the installation and hardware costs are covered, ongoing expenses are relatively lower but still require careful planning.
Running and Maintenance Costs
Operational costs, which include maintenance, repairs, and staffing, are generally much lower than the initial setup costs. Electric vehicles themselves also require less maintenance compared to gas-powered vehicles because they have fewer moving parts.
Battery storage is a critical component that needs proper management to ensure safety and extend its lifespan. In one Nigerian case study, the levelized cost of electricity for a solar/wind hybrid charging station was calculated at $0.211 per kWh.
Smart charging strategies can further reduce costs. For example, charging vehicles during peak sunlight hours can eliminate the need for expensive stationary battery storage, which extends battery life and reduces overall system expenses. Additionally, time-of-use tariffs that incentivize daytime charging can improve financial efficiency.
To manage these costs, various funding and financial support mechanisms are available.
Funding and Financial Support Options
Several financing options can help make solar EV charging projects more feasible. Development Finance Institutions like the African Development Bank Group offer de-risking support, making these projects more appealing to private investors. According to the International Energy Agency, $28 billion in concessional funding will be needed by 2030 to attract $90 billion in private investment for clean energy projects across Africa.
Local financial institutions are also stepping up to address regional energy challenges. Some charging equipment providers offer "Charging-as-a-Service" (EVCaaS) models, which bundle installation and equipment costs into a monthly subscription. Revenue-sharing arrangements are another option, allowing vendors to install stations at no upfront cost to property owners.
International financing can also improve project viability. For instance, in The Gambia, international parent companies have secured interest rates as low as 3.1% APR, compared to local rates of around 12%. In October 2025, IRENA and Sierra Leone’s government hosted the second Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA) Investment Forum, connecting renewable energy projects with global investors.
However, borrowing costs remain a challenge. Energy projects in many African nations face interest rates two to three times higher than those in advanced economies or China. Despite this, 91% of new renewable energy projects are now more cost-effective than fossil fuel alternatives, making the case for solar-powered EV charging stations increasingly attractive.
Problems and How to Fix Them
While solar-powered EV charging offers a promising solution for sustainable transportation, several challenges are slowing its adoption across Africa. By identifying these hurdles and considering practical solutions, businesses and communities can better navigate the path forward.
Poor Infrastructure
A major roadblock is the unreliable power grid. In sub-Saharan Africa, the System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI) sits at 39.30, a stark contrast to the 0.87 recorded in high-income OECD countries. Moreover, less than half of those connected to the grid in 34 surveyed African nations enjoy consistent electricity access.
One way to work around this issue is to sidestep the grid entirely. Standalone solar systems and mini-grids have proven effective in earlier trials, bypassing grid limitations altogether. Additionally, smart charging strategies can optimize solar energy use by aligning EV charging with peak sunlight hours. These methods not only boost solar utilization – often exceeding 80% – but also help protect stationary batteries, extending their lifespan.
Yet infrastructure isn’t the only hurdle; financial constraints also play a significant role.
High Costs for Users and Businesses
The financial barriers are steep. Installing Level 3 DC fast charging stations can cost tens of thousands of dollars, making them inaccessible for many small businesses. On top of that, the high cost of EVs is a deterrent. For example, used internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in Kenya or Nigeria typically cost between $6,000 and $10,000, while new EVs remain pricier without subsidies or incentives. This is especially significant in a region where 85% of four-wheel vehicle sales are used ICE models.
To make solar EV charging more affordable, several approaches can help. Battery-swapping models, for instance, eliminate the high upfront cost of EV batteries. Instead, users pay only for the energy they consume. Ampersand has already implemented this model in Rwanda, where electric two-wheeler drivers can swap out depleted batteries for fully charged ones within minutes. Time-of-Use tariffs, offering cheaper rates during peak solar hours, can also reduce costs while maximizing solar energy usage. Governments can further encourage adoption by introducing tax exemptions for EVs and charging equipment, as seen in Rwanda. Targeting high-use commercial fleets – like two-wheelers, minibuses, and vans – can also make a significant impact, as these vehicles often have a more favorable total cost of ownership.
Equipment and Technical Problems
Technical issues, such as non-standardized connectors across different manufacturers, complicate the charging process and require various adapters. Additionally, limited access to technical expertise and equipment shortages make maintenance a challenge.
Local manufacturing and strategic partnerships can help tackle these problems. For example, in 2021, Opibus (now Roam) focused on local research, development, and assembly in Kenya to create electric motorcycles tailored to the needs of "boda boda" drivers. These motorcycles, capable of traveling up to 130 km per day, addressed both equipment shortages and maintenance concerns by using components suited to local conditions. Similarly, in Nigeria, JET Motor Company introduced the JET EV electric van with a range of over 250 km. Partnering with GIG Logistics, they installed charging stations that could fully charge two EVs in just two hours. Modular designs also make scaling and maintenance easier, helping to address gaps in technical expertise.
Another practical solution is repurposing EV batteries once they degrade beyond vehicle standards. These "second-life" batteries can serve as stationary storage for mini-grids, cutting down on both waste and costs.
"Dispatchable loads can significantly reduce the reliance on batteries, by effectively bypassing them, and thus lengthening their service life, improving the reliability of the minigrid." – Rupert Gammon, Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development
Forming partnerships with transport associations or logistics companies can also ensure the financial and technical viability of charging stations by creating stable demand.
Long-Term Benefits
Cleaner Air and Lower Emissions
Switching to solar-powered EV charging significantly reduces tailpipe emissions, cutting down on greenhouse gases and harmful particulates. With transportation contributing to 10% of Africa’s total greenhouse gas emissions, this change is crucial for achieving climate goals.
When powered by clean energy, EVs produce 65% to 85% fewer emissions over their lifecycle compared to traditional combustion vehicles. Even in regions where fossil fuels dominate electricity production, EVs still manage to achieve at least a 40% reduction in tailpipe carbon emissions compared to gasoline-powered cars. In Uganda, for example, where the electricity grid is 99% renewable with an emission intensity of just 8.8 g CO2/kWh, solar-powered EV infrastructure aligns perfectly with an already low-carbon energy system.
Beyond reducing emissions, solar EVs help prevent Africa from becoming a dumping ground for outdated, high-emission vehicles from industrialized nations. They also support rural minigrids by acting as flexible energy loads, enhancing the financial and operational stability of renewable energy systems in off-grid areas. This dual benefit leads to cleaner air and a more dependable energy supply, working together to create healthier and more sustainable communities.
Jobs and Economic Growth
The economic benefits of solar EV charging extend far beyond just saving on fuel costs. Take The Gambia’s Solar Taxi project, for instance. Removing fuel expenses allowed taxi drivers to increase their earnings by an impressive 250% to 1,300%.
Electric mobility is also sparking the creation of new industries. By the end of 2021, more than 20 EV startups in sub-Saharan Africa collectively raised over $25 million in funding. The relatively simple design of EVs opens doors for local vehicle production and assembly, paving the way for regions to establish their own automotive industries where none existed before.
For rural micro-businesses, solar-powered transportation means greater access to markets. Farmers and small producers can transport more goods than ever before, breaking free from the limitations of carrying loads manually. This increased mobility helps lift communities out of poverty by generating additional income. Moreover, money that once went toward importing fuel now stays within local economies, supporting small businesses and creating jobs in vehicle assembly, maintenance, and charging infrastructure. These economic ripple effects highlight how solar-powered mobility can transform livelihoods while building a sustainable future.
Better Transportation Systems
Solar-powered EV charging doesn’t just clean the air and boost economies – it also enhances transportation systems, especially in rural and underserved areas. By relying on solar minigrids, communities gain energy independence, freeing themselves from the volatility of global oil prices and the inconvenience of distant refueling stations.
The financial advantages are clear. Solar energy can be generated for as little as $0.06 per kWh, which is significantly cheaper than grid electricity that often costs $0.15 per kWh or more. Fleet operators, in particular, benefit from these savings, which compound over time.
Additionally, repurposing degraded EV batteries for stationary energy storage creates a circular system that lowers costs and enhances infrastructure reliability. This synergy between solar energy and EV technology not only improves affordability but also ensures a steady and dependable energy supply.
"The symbiosis between smart minigrids and electric mobility has the potential to improve the cost and reliability of energy access for off-grid communities while providing low-carbon transport services." – Rupert Gammon, Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development
Conclusion
Solar-powered EV charging offers Africa a pathway to transition from fossil fuel dependency to a cleaner, more resilient transportation system. With relatively low installation and operational expenses, it makes economic sense. Fleet operators, for instance, can secure stable energy costs over the 25–30-year lifespan of solar panels, significantly boosting earnings for commercial drivers.
But it’s not without hurdles. Challenges like inadequate infrastructure, steep upfront costs, and technical limitations slow widespread adoption. However, innovative approaches are already making headway. Battery-swapping stations, time-of-use tariffs encouraging daytime charging, and repurposed EV batteries for stationary energy storage are gaining traction in pilot projects across the continent. These solutions not only enhance reliability but also bring solar EV charging within reach for rural areas where extending the grid remains financially unfeasible. These advancements highlight the importance of focused efforts from all involved parties.
"Solar PV offers a rapid, cost-effective way to provide utility-scale electricity for the grid and modern energy services to the approximately 600 million Africans who lack electricity access." – IRENA
To maximize impact, fleet operators and policymakers should prioritize high-mileage commercial vehicles, such as two-wheelers and taxis, which promise substantial fuel savings and quick returns on investment. With fleet expansion on the horizon, today’s decisions will shape whether Africa leads the charge in sustainable mobility or becomes a repository for outdated internal combustion engine vehicles.
FAQs
What are the biggest challenges in setting up solar-powered EV charging stations in Africa?
Setting up solar-powered EV charging stations in Africa presents a range of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is the high upfront costs. Equipment like solar panels, batteries, and charging hardware doesn’t come cheap. On top of that, limited financing options make it even harder to get these projects off the ground. Adding to the expense is the reliance on imported equipment, which not only raises costs but can also cause delays due to supply chain disruptions.
Infrastructure limitations are another major issue. In many rural and peri-urban areas, reliable electricity grids are either weak or nonexistent. This means solar charging stations often need to incorporate battery storage or mini-grid systems, which adds both complexity and expense. Designing these setups to ensure efficient energy use and storage can also be a technical challenge.
Lastly, there are logistical obstacles to consider. Limited local manufacturing capabilities drive up costs, and a shortage of skilled technicians makes maintenance and troubleshooting difficult. These factors combined make implementing solar-powered EV charging stations a complicated process.
How do solar-powered EV charging stations boost economic growth in Africa?
Solar-powered EV charging stations are making a big impact on economic growth in Africa by tapping into the continent’s abundant sunlight to produce clean, affordable energy. These stations often cut charging costs by 20–30% compared to traditional grid electricity. For businesses like fleet operators, ride-hailing services, and small enterprises, this means lower operating expenses – savings that can be passed on to their customers. On a larger scale, these stations reduce dependence on imported fuels, which can improve national trade balances and redirect resources toward local development initiatives.
The benefits don’t stop there. These charging stations are also driving job creation and boosting local economies. Industries such as solar panel manufacturing, battery storage, and infrastructure development gain momentum, creating employment opportunities. In off-grid areas, these stations provide a steady energy source, opening the door for new ventures like electric public transport and delivery services in regions that previously lacked such options. By combining cost efficiency, job creation, and access to new markets, solar-powered EV charging stations are helping to fuel broad-based economic growth across Africa.
How much can EV owners in Africa save compared to using traditional gas-powered vehicles?
EV owners across Africa can significantly cut down on operating costs compared to those driving gas-powered vehicles. On average, electric vehicles (EVs) use about 7.8 times less energy, which translates to much lower fuel expenses per mile. For instance, covering 100 kilometers in Kenya with an EV like the Tesla Model 3 costs approximately $3.37, while the same trip in a gas-powered Mercedes C-Class sets drivers back $10.16. In Nigeria, the difference is even more striking – just $1.13 for an EV compared to $3.72 for a traditional vehicle.
Maintenance is another area where EVs shine. With fewer moving parts and no need for regular oil changes, EVs require about 40% less maintenance than their gas-powered counterparts. Over the lifespan of a vehicle, these savings can reduce total ownership costs by 38% to 62%, even when accounting for the higher upfront purchase price. Many African governments also offer financial perks, such as tax breaks, VAT exemptions, and other incentives, further boosting the economic appeal of EVs.
For African drivers, these energy and maintenance savings make EVs a cost-effective choice and a forward-thinking investment for the future.
