Solar Power Potential in Chad

Country or Region Overview

Country or Region: Chad

Capital: N'Djamena

Total Population: Aroun 17 million (as of 2025)

Geographical Location: Chad is a landlocked country in Central Africa, bordered by Libya to the north, Sudan to the east, the Central African Republic to the south, and Cameroon, Nigeria, and Niger to the west.

Solar resource map copyright at 2021 Solargis. Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution license (CC BY-SA 4.0). This is a solar resource map from Solargis. For a higher resolution map, please visit and download.

Table of Contents

Solar Irradiation Data in Chad

Chad has exceptional solar energy potential, with annual average solar irradiation levels ranging from 5.5 kWh/m²/day to 6.5 kWh/m²/day. The country is located in the Sahel and Sahara regions, receiving abundant sunshine year-round, making it one of the best locations in Africa for solar energy development.

Key Solar Irradiation Data:

  • Annual Solar Irradiation: Around 5.9 kWh/m²/day on average
  • High Irradiation Regions: Northern Chad (Sahara Desert) and central regions
  • Peak Irradiation: Up to 6.5 kWh/m²/day in desert areas

Due to limited access to electricity, Chad has a strong need for off-grid solar solutions to improve energy access, particularly in rural areas.

If you need to learn more solar power potential in Chad, please feel free to contact Solarvance for more details.

Temperature Factors in Chad

  • Average Annual Temperature: Chad has a hot desert and semi-arid climate, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) in the north and ranging between 25°C (77°F) and 35°C (95°F) in central and southern regions.
  • Impact on Solar Panels: High temperatures can slightly reduce the efficiency of solar panels, but due to high solar irradiation levels, energy generation remains optimal.

Recommendation: Using high-temperature-resistant solar panels, such as PERC or bifacial panels, will help maintain efficiency in Chad’s extreme heat.

Energy Demand and Grid Situation in Chad

  • National Energy Demand: Chad has one of the lowest electrification rates in the world, with only about 11% of the population having access to electricity. In rural areas, the electrification rate is below 2%.
  • Grid Infrastructure: Chad’s electricity grid is underdeveloped, with most power generation relying on expensive diesel generators. Solar power presents a major opportunity to provide a sustainable and affordable energy source.
  • Opportunities from Global Events: The Chadian government and international organizations are increasing investments in renewable energy projects to expand electricity access and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Preferred System Type in Chad

  • Off-Grid Systems: Off-grid solar power with battery storage is the most viable solution for Chad, especially in rural communities and remote areas where the grid is unavailable.
  • Mini-Grid Systems: Community-based solar mini-grids can provide sustainable electricity to villages, schools, and health centers.
  • Hybrid Systems: A combination of solar power, batteries, and backup generators is suitable for businesses and critical infrastructure.

Dust and Sand Factor in Chad

  • Dust and Sandstorms: Chad’s Sahara and Sahel regions experience frequent dust storms and strong winds, which can reduce solar panel efficiency.
  • Recommendation: Using self-cleaning technologies, tilted panel designs, and regular maintenance will help prevent dust accumulation and maintain energy output.

Humidity and Rainfall (Humidity Factor) in Chad

  • Humidity Levels: Chad has low humidity in the north (desert climate) but higher humidity in the south, particularly during the rainy season.
  • Impact on Solar Panels: While low humidity is beneficial for solar efficiency, high humidity in the south may cause moisture accumulation in panel components.
  • Recommendation: Using weatherproof solar panels and corrosion-resistant materials is recommended in southern Chad.

Ocean (Salt Corrosion Factor) in Chad

  • Saltwater Corrosion: Since Chad is landlocked, salt corrosion is not a concern for solar installations.
  • Recommendation: Standard solar panels and mounting structures will perform well without salt-related degradation issues.

Government Policies and Solar Incentives in Chad

Chad’s government has recognized solar energy as a key solution to its electricity access challenges and has introduced various initiatives to support renewable energy development:

  • National Renewable Energy Plan: Aims to increase solar power installations across the country to reduce dependency on diesel generators.
  • Solar Energy Investment Partnerships: Chad collaborates with international organizations like the World Bank and the African Development Bank to fund solar mini-grid projects.
  • Tax Exemptions: The government has introduced duty-free import policies for solar equipment to make installations more affordable.
  • Rural Electrification Projects: Several off-grid solar projects are being developed to bring electricity to remote villages.

ROI on Solar Systems in Chad

  • ROI Period: Due to high solar irradiation and increasing energy demand, solar systems in Chad typically offer an ROI period of 3 to 5 years.
  • Long-Term Savings: After the initial investment, users can save up to 80% on energy costs, making solar a cost-effective and sustainable solution.

Conclusion on Solar Power in Chad

Chad has one of the highest solar energy potentials in Africa, but low electricity access makes it an urgent market for solar solutions. With abundant sunshine, growing government support, and international investments, solar energy is the best solution for powering homes, businesses, and rural communities in Chad.

For businesses, non-profits, and investors, now is the perfect time to invest in solar energy in Chad. Solarvance is ready to provide customized solar power solutions for Chad’s energy needs.

Choose Solarvance for Your Solar System

Contact us today to explore customized solar solutions for your needs, whether you’re interested in grid-connected, off-grid, or hybrid solar systems. Our team at Solarvance is here to guide you through every step of the process, from system design to installation and maintenance.

Nederlands (Formeel)