Middle East and Africa Solar PV Glass Market: By Glass Type (3.2 mm, 2 mm), By End-User (Residential, Commercial), and Country

Middle East and Africa Solar PV Glass Market is experiencing significant growth, with installed and glass consumed volume reaching 172.0 million sq.mts in 2023 and projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9%. Solar PV glass, which converts solar energy into electricity using solar cells, is gaining traction in MEA countries due to increased demand for solar PV installations, decreasing PV module prices, and rising rooftop solar installations, particularly in the residential sector. Technological advancements are revolutionizing the market, enhancing efficiency and affordability through innovations in panel designs, energy storage, and smart grid technologies.

The integration of AI and machine learning is optimizing energy production and reducing costs. In November 2023, perovskite tandem solar cells set a new world record for efficiency, surpassing the previous record set just months earlier. The availability of funding for household, commercial and industrial, and utility-scale projects has further accelerated the adoption of solar photovoltaic systems. The financial sector in South Africa has created innovative financing options that address the unique requirements of C&I and residential projects. However, challenges such as skill shortages and prolonged equipment delays negatively impact the growth of the solar PV glass installation market across the country.

Moreover, low available grid capacity in high-yield areas, particularly in the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, and Western Cape is impeding the expansion of the utility-scale sector. In the medium to long term, it is anticipated that the establishment of an independent TSO entity will facilitate the installation of additional transmission infrastructure. Despite challenges like supply chain limitations and permitting obstacles, the MEA solar PV glass market is expected to transform, with M&A activity predicted to increase significantly in 2024. Researchers have made progress with multi-junction PV cells, achieving efficiencies of over 45%. Bifacial solar panels, capturing light on both sides, show 30-40% higher efficiency when combined with sun-tracking technology. Agrivoltaics, integrating solar panels with farmland, addresses land-use conflicts and can increase farm yields. However, limitations on PV efficiency, geographic constraints, and lack of awareness hinder adoption. Installing rooftop solar PV systems has grown in popularity as an affordable method for energy consumers of all sizes to strengthen their resilience against load shedding and rising power prices. The availability of various funding options coupled with supportive legislation and regulations have supported the rooftop installation in the region.

Middle East and Africa Solar PV Glass Market Key Developments:

• In July 2024, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources has greenlit a $1.5 billion investment for a new solar photovoltaic (PV) glass factory. This significant development aims to boost domestic solar panel production and position the country as a leader in the regional solar energy market.
• In June 2024, Morocco's Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development has unveiled plans to integrate large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) plants with energy-intensive industries. This innovative approach aims to provide a stable and cost-effective renewable energy source for industrial operations, promoting sustainable growth and energy security.