Off-grid solar needs $11.4 billion investment to bring electricity to millions, World Bank report finds

A World Bank programme and the Global Off-Grid Solar Association estimate that expanding dependable solar power beyond conventional networks will require $11.4 billion over four years. Profit by Pakistan Today, citing Bloomberg’s coverage of the report, says the funding plan includes $1.3 billion per year in grants and subsidies, plus annual private financing of $1.6 billion through equity, loans and receivables.

The report puts the number of people using off-grid solar products at 149 million in 2025, up 26% over two years, and says these systems have produced $28 billion in consumer income and savings over 15 years. Yet purchase costs remain a barrier: only roughly 33% of households lacking electricity could pay for a basic solar home system while keeping spending within 5% of household consumption. The report also says the global energy transition needs yearly investment averaging $3 trillion to $5 trillion by 2030, and calls for stronger backing from governments, investors and development partners.