12 Solar Plants to Emerge in Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d’Ivoire is embarking on a significant expansion of its renewable energy infrastructure, with plans to develop 12 new photovoltaic solar plants. The initiative, unveiled by the Minister of Mines, Oil, and Energy, Mamadou Sangafowa Coulibaly, sets ambitious targets to add 678 MW of solar capacity by 2030 and increase that figure to 1,686 MW by 2040. This strategic push aligns with the country’s goal to achieve a 45% renewable share in its energy mix by the end of the decade.

The development will be rolled out in phases, with the first projects slated to begin in 2025 in the cities of Ferkessédougou (52 MWp) and Bondoukou (50 MWp). Construction on an additional three plants is scheduled for 2026 in Korhogo (116 MWp), M’bengué (50 MWp), and Katiola (50 MWp). The comprehensive plan also includes developments in Tengréla, Kong, Sérébou, Touba and Loboa, Odienné, Mankono, and Soubré, demonstrating a widespread national commitment to solar power.

This new wave of projects builds upon recent successes. The announcement was strategically made during the inauguration of the 37.5 MW Boundiali solar power plant, the nation’s first significant solar array, which has been officially commissioned in the country’s northern region. The facility is a key asset, supplying clean electricity to the national utility, Compagnie Ivoirienne d’Electricité.

The Boundiali project, which will see its second phase completed by April 2025, represents a total investment of €75.6 million ($81.8 million). Its impact is substantial, projected to power approximately 70,000 homes while abating 60,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. The project has also served as a catalyst for local economic growth, generating over 300 direct and indirect jobs. This initiative is a concrete step in Côte d’Ivoire’s strategy to diversify its energy sources and fulfill its commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Sources for the 12 Solar Plants to Emerge in Côte d’Ivoire

1. Renpower Côte d’Ivoire – 3rd Edition – Euroconvention Global
2. Côte d’Ivoire. 12 photovoltaic solar power plants will emerge… – Powers of Africa
3. RENPOWER Côte d’Ivoire 2024 – African Power Platform
4. Côte d’Ivoire Breaks Ground on 50 MW Kong Solar Plant – Ecofin Agency
5. Ivory Coast to build 52 MW solar plant by 2027 – PV Magazine
6. Infinity Power to build two 80MW solar projects in Côte d’Ivoire – PV Tech
7. Côte d’Ivoire – Scaling Solar