Dentist Ismet Booley in Cape Town experienced firsthand the frustration of unreliable electricity. "I just couldn't work," Dr. Booley said, recalling instances where power outages disrupted appointments, preventing him from performing essential procedures like X-rays and root canals. Now, he is one of many South Africans who have embraced solar power as a reliable alternative.

What's happening in suburban Cape Town is being replicated across various sectors, from factories and shopping malls to dentist offices and gold mines. These aren't the small, rudimentary solar lanterns of the past, but sophisticated solar and battery systems capable of powering entire businesses.

The rise of solar energy in Africa's biggest economy has been remarkably swift. Solar power has emerged from near obscurity to become a significant player in the energy landscape, altering daily life, trade, and industry. The shift is largely attributed to the affordability of solar technology, making it an accessible option for businesses seeking energy independence.