Price of photovoltaic modules for villas in Ouagadougou

Are utility-scale solar PV projects a good idea in Africa?

Many of the latest proposed utility-scale solar PV projects are targeting competitive installed cost levels that are comparable to today’s lowest-cost projects.4 This is a very positive signal, given the nascent market for solar PV in Africa and the challenging business environment for infrastructure projects in many African countries.

Are competitive cost structures for utility-scale solar PV achievable in Africa?

This suggests that with the right regulatory framework and access to finance, competitive cost structures for utility-scale solar PV are achievable throughout Africa. The key uncertainties are whether these projects actually will reach financial close and if these ex-ante cost estimates can be achieved. 20 See Enel Green Power (2016).

How much will PV modules cost in 2025?

Global average PV module prices could fall significantly to between USD 0.28 and USD 0.46/W by 2025 depending on the assumptions used and based on a top-down learning curve and bottom-up technology-based economic analysis (IRENA, 2016c).

How much does a solar PV mini-grid cost in Africa?

Stand-alone solar PV mini-grids or solar PV-hybrid mini-grids have installed costs in Africa ranging from USD 1.9 to USD 5.9/W for systems greater than 200 kW. Solar PV mini-grids that came online in 2012 or earlier have higher costs.

What is the average solar PV system capacity in Africa?

The average residential solar PV system in OECD countries has a capacity of 3 to 5 kW. SHS in Africa can be 60 to 250 times smaller, with a typical capacity of 20 to 100 W. In addition to having higher costs per watt due to their small size, these systems need to incorporate batteries and charge controllers.

How much does a PV module cost?

The PV module costs span a significant range but cluster around USD 1.2 and USD 1.9/W. Battery costs show a significantly larger variation in installed costs; however it is the balance of all other system costs that show the largest variation.