Empowering Solar Growth in East Africa: Insights from Fronius Solar Energy’s Regional Leaders

In the rapidly evolving solar energy landscape of East Africa, Fronius Solar Energy is at the forefront of innovation and growth. We spoke with Mr. Hannes Wendeler, Area Sales Manager for Africa and Southeast Europe, and Mr. David Mwangi, Technical Advisor for Eastern Africa, to explore the opportunities, challenges, and unique dynamics shaping the adoption of solar power in the region. With their combined expertise, they provide valuable insights into market development, innovative technology solutions, and Fronius’s strategic role in driving the region’s transition towards sustainable energy. From advanced inverter technology to integrated solar carport solutions, they share how Fronius is meeting local energy needs while fostering a culture of quality and reliability.

1. How has the market for PV systems evolved in Africa, and what unique challenges and opportunities do you foresee for the adoption of solar power among large companies and home installations, specifically in East Africa?

We have seen significant development in the commercial segment. As the electricity grid is relatively stable in many East African regions, reducing energy costs remains the primary reason for investing in PV systems. While technical solutions are readily available, the financial aspect presents the biggest challenge in the commercial and industrial (C&I) market.

When calculating ROI, it’s not just the capital costs (CAPEX) that matter but also the operating and maintenance costs (OPEX). The quality of the inverter used significantly influences both.

More companies are now offering financing packages for PV systems. The higher the quality of the products used and the more reputable the manufacturer, the more likely a project will be bankable. Since Fronius offers both — durable, reliable, high-quality devices and a strong reputation in the industry — we see these circumstances as an opportunity.

Additionally, the net metering scheme in Kenya presents another opportunity. Incentivizing the market in this way will also create more opportunities for solar energy adoption.

2. How does the Fronius SnapINverter technology address the unique challenges of the East African market, and what benefits does it offer to local businesses and homeowners?

For larger photovoltaic systems, it is particularly important to keep running costs (OPEX) as low as possible. The Active Cooling Technology of the Fronius SnapINverter series ensures this by not only optimizing yield but also maximizing the inverter’s lifespan. Additionally, the Dynamic Peak Manager eliminates the need for power optimizer components since intelligent shade management is already embedded.

The Fronius service concept also enables on-site PC board replacement, which can be carried out quickly and cost-effectively. This means that individual components can be replaced, rather than the entire device, which would otherwise need to be shipped from abroad.

3. In your experience, how do the quality standards and manufacturing practices at Fronius differentiate your products in the competitive East African market?

Quality is a core value at Fronius. Our entire production is designed to meet the highest standards.

Using a premium device from a reliable manufacturer makes your project more likely to be bankable. Generally speaking, the higher the quality of the inverter, the better the ROI, and the more satisfied the customer.

4. Can you share any standout success stories or unique case studies where Fronius System Partners have effectively designed and implemented photovoltaic systems in East Africa, particularly highlighting innovative approaches or significant impacts?

Together with Total, the solarization of numerous gas stations was implemented across Africa. Fronius System Partners carried out these projects to ensure high-quality installations. The cooperation with Fronius also enabled proper training on the products and solutions used, as well as a specific transfer of expertise.

5. How is Fronius addressing the growing demand for solar carports in East Africa, and what are your expectations for this market segment in the near future?

Fronius Solar Energy provides holistic energy solutions. With us, you get everything from a single source. Our intelligent charging solution — the Fronius Wattpilot — makes it possible to charge electric cars with energy from a photovoltaic system, whether it is installed on a roof or a solar carport. We combine solar power generation and EV charging for optimal utilization of your photovoltaic system capacity.

6. Is there anything additional you would like to highlight about the solar landscape in East Africa and how Fronius products have driven sales and contributed to the market’s development?

e expect an increase in photovoltaics for small to medium-sized commercial systems and are prepared for this with our new Fronius Verto inverter. This inverter is designed to address this segment with its four high-current MPPT concept (28 A per string and MPPT), a wide input voltage range, and innovative shading management. Whether installing a new PV system or expanding an existing one, the Fronius Verto allows for complex system designs with a variety of module orientations or slopes.