Used Diesel Generators for Africa: Strong Demand Markets for UK Exporters
The global demand for used diesel generators remains strong across Africa, particularly in regions where grid reliability, rapid infrastructure growth, and commercial expansion drive the need for dependable power solutions. UK-supplied generators are highly regarded for build quality, engine reliability, and long service life, making them a preferred choice for buyers seeking value and performance.
This guide focuses on five of the strongest African markets for used generators, highlighting why demand remains high and which generator types perform best in each country.
Reliable Power for Africa: The Growing Demand for Used Diesel Generators
Across Africa, consistent access to electricity remains a challenge. Whether it's frequent blackouts or limited rural coverage, reliable power is vital for businesses, institutions, and communities to function. That’s where used diesel generators come in — offering cost-effective and dependable solutions, especially from trusted global brands like Perkins, Cummins, Iveco, and Volvo.
Nigeria: Africa’s Largest Market for Used Generators
In Nigeria, grid instability has made generators a part of everyday life — not just for industries, but for homes, hospitals, and schools.
What’s Driving Nigeria’s Generator Demand?
Critical backup power for factories, offices, estates, and hospitals
Off-grid power for underserved rural and peri-urban areas
Primary power source for manufacturing and oil & gas sectors
Top Generator Preferences
Diesel generators between 100 kVA to 1,000 kVA
Strong preference for Perkins and Cummins engines
Soundproof, containerised units ideal for cities
Other trusted brands: FG Wilson, CAT, Iveco, Volvo Penta
Strong keywords: used generators Nigeria, diesel generator Nigeria, off-grid power Nigeria, industrial generators Nigeria, UK generator export Nigeria
Kenya: Powering East Africa’s Growth
Kenya’s booming telecom, construction, and commercial sectors demand steady, efficient power — especially for sites with unreliable grid access.
Where Power is Needed in Kenya
Powering telecom towers and base stations
Standby units for construction projects
Supporting power for shopping malls, banks, and data centres
What Buyers Want
Used generators from 30 kVA to 500 kVA
Low-hour Perkins and Iveco engines with proven fuel efficiency
Compatibility with AMF/ATS panels for smooth operation
Other brands used: Volvo, Cummins, Deutz
Strong keywords: used generators Kenya, telecom generators Kenya, construction generators Kenya, diesel gensets Kenya, UK used generators Kenya
South Africa: Fighting Load Shedding with Backup Generators
South Africa’s persistent load shedding has created a massive need for standby generators — especially in commercial and industrial hubs.
Who Needs Backup Power?
Factories and warehouses facing daily outages
Offices, retail, and healthcare facilities in cities
Mining and logistics operations in remote areas
Generator Preferences
150 kVA to 2,000 kVA used industrial sets
High demand for Volvo, Perkins, and Cummins powered units
Quiet, silent canopy designs for urban use
Other trusted brands: FG Wilson, Iveco, John Deere
Strong keywords: used generators South Africa, diesel generators South Africa, backup power South Africa, industrial generators South Africa, load shedding generators
Libya: Generator Power for Reconstruction Projects
Libya’s infrastructure revival has made used generators crucial for large-scale engineering and construction projects across the country.
Why Generators Are Vital
Powering reconstruction and infrastructure works
Energy for remote camps and project sites
Reliable supply for engineering contractors in unstable zones
Generator Needs
Heavy-duty sets 250 kVA and above
Open and skid-mounted Iveco and Cummins units
Mechanical engines preferred — minimal electronics, easier maintenance
Other brands: Volvo, Perkins, CAT
Strong keywords: used generators Libya, project power Libya, diesel generators Libya, construction generators Libya, UK generator export Libya
Ghana: Supporting a Fast-Growing Industrial Base
Ghana’s economy continues to grow, creating strong demand for backup and standby power in industrial and commercial areas.
Main Drivers of Demand
Industrial zones, manufacturing and production facilities
Backup for hospitals, banks, and office buildings
Filling the gap in national power supply
Generator Preferences
Used diesel sets from 60 kVA to 800 kVA
Preference for UK-sourced Perkins and Cummins units with service records
Fuel-efficient engines with long runtime — Volvo and Iveco popular in industrial zones
Strong keywords: used generators Ghana, diesel generators Ghana, backup power Ghana, industrial generators Ghana, UK used gensets Ghana
Why Perkins, Cummins, Iveco, and Volvo Engines Are in High Demand
Buyers across Africa consistently seek out used generators powered by Perkins, Cummins, Iveco, and Volvo — and for good reason:
Perkins: Known for durability and easy maintenance
Cummins: Powerful, globally supported, ideal for heavy-duty use
Iveco: Robust, fuel-efficient, and well-suited for tough environments
Volvo Penta: Quiet operation, high performance, and premium quality
The Value of UK Used Generators
UK-sourced used generators have a strong reputation across Africa due to:
Proven reliability and long engine life
High-quality alternators, engines, and control systems
Better prices than new generators — with performance that often matches
Easy access to parts, servicing, and local know-how
Whether you're running a hospital in Lagos, a mine in Limpopo, or a telecom tower in Nairobi, UK used generators powered by Perkins, Cummins, Iveco, or Volvo offer the performance and peace of mind that African buyers demand.
