2025 IRENA Report: Off-Grid Solar Expands Electricity Access Across Africa, Asia, And South America - SolarQuarter
Published January 03, 2026
2025 IRENA Report: Off-Grid Solar Expands Electricity Access Across Africa, Asia, And South America
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has released its 2025 report, highlighting the significant strides made in expanding electricity access through off-grid solar technologies in Africa, Asia, and South America. This report underscores the transformative potential of off-grid solar solutions in addressing energy poverty and improving the quality of life for millions of people in underserved regions.
According to the report, off-grid solar installations have proliferated in recent years, driven by decreasing costs and increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions. In 2025, the global off-grid solar market is expected to reach a capacity of 20 gigawatts (GW), with a substantial portion of this growth occurring in developing countries. The report notes that off-grid solar systems, including solar home systems and mini-grids, are playing a crucial role in providing electricity to remote and rural communities.
In Africa, the off-grid solar market has experienced remarkable growth, with over 20 million solar home systems installed across the continent. This expansion has allowed approximately 100 million people to gain access to electricity, significantly improving their living conditions and enabling economic opportunities. Countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda have emerged as leaders in off-grid solar adoption, with innovative financing models and government support facilitating the deployment of these technologies.
Asia, too, has seen a surge in off-grid solar installations, particularly in countries like India and Bangladesh. The report indicates that India has installed over 10 million solar home systems, providing electricity to more than 50 million people. The Indian government has implemented various policies and programs aimed at promoting off-grid solar solutions, including subsidies and incentives for rural electrification. In Bangladesh, the Solar Home Systems program has successfully brought electricity to more than 4 million households, benefiting around 20 million people.
In South America, off-grid solar solutions are gaining traction as well. The report highlights the growing interest in solar technologies in countries like Brazil and Colombia, where off-grid solar systems are being deployed to address energy access challenges in remote and rural areas. In Brazil, initiatives such as the "Luz para Todos" program have been instrumental in expanding electricity access to underserved populations through off-grid solar solutions.
The IRENA report emphasizes the importance of innovative business models and financing mechanisms in driving the growth of the off-grid solar market. Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) models have emerged as a popular approach, allowing consumers to access solar energy without the burden of upfront costs. This financing model has been particularly effective in low-income communities, where traditional financing options may be limited.
Furthermore, the report highlights the role of international partnerships and collaborations in advancing off-grid solar initiatives. Organizations, governments, and private sector players are increasingly working together to create enabling environments for off-grid solar deployment. These partnerships are essential for sharing best practices, mobilizing investment, and scaling up successful projects.
Despite the progress made, the report also identifies challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the continued growth of off-grid solar solutions. Regulatory barriers, limited access to finance, and the need for capacity building in local communities are among the key obstacles that must be overcome. The report calls for concerted efforts from governments, development partners, and the private sector to address these challenges and create a more conducive environment for off-grid solar deployment.
Looking ahead, IRENA projects that the off-grid solar market will continue to expand, with the potential to provide electricity to an additional 500 million people by 2030. This growth will be driven by technological advancements, declining costs, and increasing awareness of the benefits of renewable energy solutions. The report underscores the critical role that off-grid solar will play in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
In conclusion, the 2025 IRENA report highlights the significant impact of off-grid solar technologies in expanding electricity access across Africa, Asia, and South America. As the global community continues to seek solutions to energy poverty, off-grid solar systems offer a viable and sustainable path forward. With continued investment, innovation, and collaboration, the dream of universal electricity access is becoming increasingly attainable.