South Africa’s solar panel imports hit new record 

South Africa’s import of solar panels has reached a new record, with R8.4 billion worth of panels imported in quarter two of 2023, more than double the amount imported in the first quarter 2023. The total value of imports in the first half 2023 has already exceeded the value imported throughout the entirety of 2022.

The sustained demand for solar panels in the private sector has been the primary driving force behind the increasing imports. The country’s solar panel imports since 2010 amount to R35 billion. This growing trend in solar panel imports is seen as a positive development in addressing the ongoing issue of load-shedding in the country, with the private sector playing a significant role in bolstering electricity generation.  

The increased load-shedding has prompted many individuals and companies in South Africa to invest in alternative energy sources like solar. As a result, rooftop solar PV installations have experienced a significant increase, reducing the residual load that Eskom needs to meet during the day. 

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