West Africa Outdoor Energy Storage Power Supply Procurement

What is the West Africa Energy Program?

The West Africa Energy Program run by US AID’s Power Africa division includes support for five solar projects which will provide about 150MW of electricity, including the Kodeni and Nagréongo solar plants in Burkina Faso and a 250MW solar / hydropower hybrid plant in Ghana.

What is the main source of power in West Africa?

Hydroelectric power is the dominant source of power in the region and is the focus of most of the large schemes underway, although there are also plans to develop more gas-fired plants and some initiatives to develop coal-fired capacity. West African countries have now begun to develop utility-scale solar power.

Where in West Africa is the biggest power generation project?

There are significant power generation projects planned or underway in most parts of West Africa, with regional economic heavyweight Nigeria the most active market and also home to the biggest scheme: the 3GW Mambilla hydroelectric plant.

Does West Africa have a low electricity rate?

West Africa has one of the lowest electrification rates in the world, with some 220 million people living without access to power, along with some of the highest electricity costs in Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the World Bank. Addressing those issues will require large amounts of investment.

How will Bess projects impact South Africa's Energy Security?

As South Africa continues to grapple with frequent blackouts and load shedding, these BESS projects will help mitigate risks and contribute to the country’s energy security. The Gainfar Project will be connected to the Ngwedi substation, while the Boitekong Project will be connected to the Marang substation.

How can West Africa meet its net zero ambitions?

If West Africa – and the world at large – is to meet its net zero ambitions, it will be vital to develop more energy storage systems, to smooth out the intermittent nature of solar and wind power and ensure that electricity is always available when and where it is needed.