The World Bank, IDA, ESMAP, and GCF are backing Guinea-Bissau’s first solar power plants with a $78.15 million investment aimed at decarbonizing the country and expanding electricity access. The project involves building solar plants near Bissau and installing mini-grids on the Bijagós islands, which will provide electricity to 1,200 households and SMEs.
Solar Energy and Access to Electricity Development Project
The World Bank has announced substantial financial support for an innovative solar power project in Guinea-Bissau aimed at reducing carbon emissions and increasing electricity access. This strategic funding aligns with the country’s Solar Energy and Access to Electricity Development Project, which will receive ongoing World Bank support until 2030.
The project has secured a $30 million grant from the World Bank, with an additional $35 million from its subsidiary, the International Development Association (IDA). Further contributions include $2.65 million from the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP) and $10.5 million from the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This initiative will enhance solar energy infrastructure by creating utility-scale solar parks, upgrading existing grid systems, and providing capacity-building support for the Ministry of Energy and the Electricity and Water Company of Guinea-Bissau (EAGB).
30 MW Solar Power Plant
The Solar Energy Development and Electricity Access Project includes constructing several solar power plants and battery storage units, with participation from the private sector. A 30 MW solar power plant will be developed near the capital, Bissau, to help reduce electricity costs and diversify the energy mix.
According to Guinea-Bissau’s Ministry of the Economy, Planning, and Regional Integration, battery storage will initially help stabilize the power supply and later offer additional services to the electricity system.
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Anne-Lucie Lefebvre, the World Bank Resident Representative in Guinea-Bissau, emphasized the project’s crucial role in advancing inclusive growth through improved infrastructure and services. Currently, only 33% of Guinea-Bissau’s population has access to electricity, and the capital city of Bissau faces particularly high costs.
The Solar Energy Scale-up and Access Project is expected to benefit residential, commercial, and industrial consumers nationwide, including those on the islands. It aligns with the government’s strategy to encourage private sector participation, stimulate economic growth, and create sustainable job opportunities.
Powering 1,200 Households and Others
The government will collaborate with private partners to establish and manage mini-grids on the Bijagós islands of Bolama, Rubane, and Bubaque. These mini-grids will harness renewable energy through approximately 500 kW of solar photovoltaic capacity, complemented by batteries or diesel generators. This infrastructure is set to supply electricity to 1,200 households, shops, hotels, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Supported by the International Development Association (IDA), the Green Climate Fund (GCF), and the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP), the initiative is set to continue until June 2030. This effort represents a significant step in reshaping Guinea-Bissau’s energy sector and leading the country toward a more sustainable, electrified future. By expanding electricity access, boosting private sector participation, and stabilizing the power supply, the project will benefit thousands of households and businesses while paving the way for broader socioeconomic development across the nation.
