2025 IRENA Report: Off-Grid Solar Expands Electricity Access Across Africa, Asia, And South America

The 2025 report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) highlights a steady transformation in global energy access, showing how renewable technologies are changing lives around the world. Among these, solar energy has emerged as the main driver of this shift, particularly in developing regions across Africa, Asia, and South America. While the report mentions other renewable sources such as hydropower and biogas, it is solar technology that is most rapidly expanding electricity access and enabling new opportunities for millions of people.

A significant success story in this transition is the widespread adoption of solar lights and Solar Home Systems (SHS). These systems come in different sizes and power outputs to meet varying household needs. Small-scale solar lights, under 11 watts, are now providing basic illumination to millions, allowing families to carry out daily tasks after sunset. Larger Solar Home Systems, ranging from 11 to 50 watts and above, offer more extensive power capacity, enabling the use of fans, small appliances, and other household equipment. Beyond individual homes, solar mini-grids have become increasingly important for community-level energy access. These mini-grids provide Tier 1 and Tier 2+ connections, supporting multiple households and community facilities, and helping entire villages gain reliable electricity for the first time.

Solar energy is also being used beyond basic lighting, with applications in agriculture, health, and education. Solar water pumps are helping farmers irrigate crops more efficiently, while specialized solar systems are powering clinics and schools. In health facilities, solar electricity ensures refrigeration for medicines and reliable lighting for medical procedures. In schools, solar power supports digital learning tools, providing students with better access to technology for education. These productive uses of solar energy are expanding the social and economic impact of renewable energy, demonstrating that it is more than a temporary or limited solution.

Regional trends show strong progress in Africa and Asia. In Africa, countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania report high numbers of people served by solar products, reflecting sustained growth in off-grid energy access. In Asia, nations such as India and Bangladesh have large-scale off-grid solar operations, reaching millions of households. Even in areas with access to other renewables like hydropower, solar often acts as a faster and more flexible option, particularly in remote communities where grid extension is difficult or costly. In South America and Southeast Asia, solar is increasingly seen as a complementary solution to other energy sources, filling gaps in electricity coverage and providing reliable power quickly.

Overall, the 2025 IRENA report shows that off-grid solar has become a central part of global energy strategies. It is no longer a niche technology but a key tool for achieving universal energy access. With declining costs and advancing technologies, solar power is improving health, education, and economic opportunities for millions of people worldwide. Its ability to provide clean, scalable, and affordable electricity makes off-grid solar a critical pillar in the pursuit of a sustainable and equitable energy future.