Estro energy solar panel Senegal

Why should Senegal invest in solar power plants?

Solar power plants in Senegal form part of the strategy for increasing access to electricity, focusing on regenerative sources. Senegal’s government wants to become an emerging economy by 2035 and the energy sector is one of the major components of Senegal’s growth. Rural areas remain the most challenging areas to install power grids.

How much does a solar power plant cost in Senegal?

The paired solar power plants cost $40.77 million, providing electricity to 540,000 people at under four cents per kWh – not only the cheapest energy in Senegal but among the most cost-effective across sub-Saharan Africa.

Who sponsors Senegal's solar power plants?

The PV plants, located in Western Senegal, are sponsored by Engie, Meridiam, and the Senegalese Sovereign Wealth Fund for Strategic Investments ( FONSIS ). The competitive tendering process was led by Senegal’s Energy Regulatory Commission ( CRSE ). For more information, please read the press release here.

How much solar power does Senegal have?

As it stands, Senegal has 112 MW of installed solar, however this figure is rising exponentially year on year as investment swings in favor of green energy development and policymakers under H.E. Macky Sall’s regime and others realize the benefits of the renewable source.

How many jobs will the new solar power plants create in Senegal?

The addition of the solar power plants form part of the World Bank Group’s Scaling Solar program and are funded by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), European Investment Bank and Proparco. The project estimates that more than 400 jobs in the towns benefit from the existence of the new solar power plants in Senegal.

Where is Senegal's new thermal power plant located?

The plant, which is located 40 km south of the capital of Dakar in the department of M’bour, will supply 33,000 Senegalese households, saving Senegal’s national electricity company SENELEC an estimated $2.77 million per annum in fuel costs for thermal power plants over its 25-year lifespan.