The Ivory Coast is advancing in the development of solar power plants, with ten multinational companies qualifying for partnerships.
These plants, set to be situated in the Bafing region, are part of a public-private partnership initiative under the World Bank’s Scaling Solar program.
Originally designed to expedite solar farm deployment through such partnerships, the program has faced delays across Africa, including in the Ivory Coast.
After nearly three years since the initial call, the official announcement of the results of the Laboa and Touba solar project tender has been made.
Notably, two companies, Meridiam and EDF Renouvelables, have joined forces to collaborate on this endeavour. Meanwhile, Voltalia has expressed interest in spearheading the construction of solar power plants.
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Other prominent contenders for the projects include Norwegian IPP Scatec, UK-based Globeleq, and Italy’s Enel Green Power, showcasing a diverse pool of expertise in renewable energy.
Despite strategic adjustments by some companies, such as Green Yellow redirecting efforts elsewhere, the commitment to solar energy development in Ivory Coast remains unwavering.
Key players like Egyptian firm Elsewedy Electric, Cairo-based Infinity Power Holding, and Morocco’s Nareva Holding are also prominent contenders for the Laboa and Touba projects.
Selected bidders have until August 9, 2024, to submit proposals to the Ivorian Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Energy and the state-owned entity Côte d’Ivoire Energies (CI-Énergies).
Once operational, the envisaged solar power plants are expected to contribute a combined output of 60 MWp to Ivory Coast’s national grid, aligning with the government’s target of achieving a 45% renewable energy share by 2030.
