[SMM PV News] Chile Adds 1.1 GW Solar in 2025

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has ruled that U.S. investment and production tax credits (ITC/PTC) under the Inflation Reduction Act violate global trade rules by discriminating against Chinese products. The decision targets the 'Domestic Content Bonus' which favors U.S.-made goods over imports.

Senegal holds the third-largest solar capacity in West Africa with 671 MW, trailing Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, with a balanced mix of utility-scale (307.5 MW) and residential (293.7 MW) installations. While the country advances its renewable goals—including a 60 MW solar-storage plant by Axian and two 50 MW turnkey projects financed by China—it is simultaneously expanding gas-fired generation following the 2024 start of the Sangomar field. Despite a mature regulatory environment and a 2030 target of 40% renewable energy, the sector faces hurdles: a pledged €2.5 billion in international concessional loans remains undisbursed, and high import duties on batteries (27%) continue to inflate costs for off-grid solutions.

Despite a low national electrification rate of 12%, Chad has achieved the second-highest solar penetration in Africa, with photovoltaics accounting for 36.7% of its electricity mix. The country currently has 110 MW of installed capacity, including 63 MW of utility-scale and 34.7 MW of residential systems. To convert its oil wealth into broader energy access, the government is advancing a 350 MW pipeline of projects concentrated around N’Djamena, including the 50 MW Noor Chad plant (commissioning in 2025) and the 36 MW Djermaya facility. Under the 'Chad Connection 2030' plan, authorities aim to install 520 MW of new solar capacity and achieve a 90% electrification rate by 2030, supported by tax incentives for equipment imports.