Solar Solutions Gain Traction in Cameroon

The second edition of the Solar Connect Africa Fair is underway in Yaounde, Cameroon, from November 11 to 13, 2026. The event, organized by OL Power Tech SARL under the patronage of the Ministry of Water Resources and Energy, focuses on leveraging solar technology to extend electricity to rural communities. With Cameroon's goal of achieving universal electricity access by 2030, the fair examines innovative solar solutions.

Extending electricity to rural areas in Cameroon has been slow and expensive due to the high cost of building power lines to remote villages. To address this challenge, the international solar programme uses four approaches: rural off-grid systems, grid-connected solar power plants, standalone home units, and rooftop panels for urban buildings. These methods aim to add power capacity while reducing pressure on city networks.

Luther Ndola, Director of OL Power Tech SARL, explained that the programme's approaches can help Cameroon reach its electricity access goal. He emphasized that installing solar panels is only part of the solution, as past projects in the region have often failed due to low-quality imported parts and a shortage of trained repair workers. To address these issues, the programme focuses on quality and capacity building.

The Solar Connect Africa Fair brings together engineers, business owners, and government officials to discuss and showcase solar solutions. The event provides a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in solar energy development. By promoting collaboration and innovation, the fair aims to accelerate Cameroon's transition to a more sustainable and reliable energy system.

Cameroon's Ministry of Water Resources and Energy, led by MINEE, is actively involved in promoting solar energy development. The ministry's patronage of the Solar Connect Africa Fair underscores its commitment to achieving universal electricity access. By supporting initiatives like the fair, the ministry aims to create an enabling environment for solar energy growth and development.

The use of solar energy can have a significant impact on Cameroon's economic and social development. By increasing access to electricity, the country can improve living standards, boost economic productivity, and enhance overall well-being. The Solar Connect Africa Fair highlights the potential of solar energy to drive positive change and promote sustainable development in Cameroon.

As the second edition of the Solar Connect Africa Fair comes to a close, stakeholders are expected to take away valuable insights and lessons on promoting solar energy in Cameroon. The event's outcomes will likely inform future initiatives and policy decisions aimed at accelerating the country's transition to a more sustainable energy system. With continued collaboration and innovation, Cameroon can make significant strides in achieving its universal electricity access goal.

Key points

• The Solar Connect Africa Fair showcases innovative solar solutions to help Cameroon achieve universal electricity access by 2030.