UAE Inaugurates 5 MW Solar Plant in Somaliland’s Berbera
In a significant step towards a sustainable energy future, the strategic port city of Berbera in Somaliland has inaugurated a new 5 MW solar plant. The project, spearheaded by the Abu Dhabi-based investment firm Global South Utilities (GSU), is a cornerstone of the ambitious “Green Berbera Vision” aimed at transitioning the city away from its reliance on diesel-generated electricity towards clean, renewable power.
The inauguration ceremony, attended by Somaliland’s President, Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, marks a pivotal moment for the region’s energy landscape. This new solar facility is set to have a profound impact on the local community and economy.
Powering a Sustainable Future with Berbera solar plant
The 5-megawatt peak (MWp) solar photovoltaic plant is more than just a power source; it’s a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade. Supported by 11.2 kilometers of new 33 kV transmission lines and associated substations, the project is designed to significantly enhance grid reliability for residents, businesses, and institutions throughout Berbera.
The plant is expected to generate approximately 10,000 MWh of clean electricity each year, enough to supply power to nearly 28,000 households. This influx of renewable energy will dramatically reduce the city’s carbon footprint, displacing diesel-based generation and avoiding an estimated 6,890 metric tonnes of COâ‚‚ emissions annually.
The ‘Green Berbera Vision’ and the Berbera solar plant
This solar plant is a key component of the broader “Green Berbera Vision,” a strategic initiative championed by GSU, which holds a 45 percent stake in the Berbera Electricity Company (BEC). The vision outlines a clear roadmap for modernizing the city’s energy grid.
Under this plan, solar power will become the primary source of electricity during the daytime. The integration of battery energy storage systems will be crucial for managing demand fluctuations and ensuring grid stability, providing a consistent power supply even when the sun isn’t shining.
The project aligns perfectly with Somaliland’s National Electrification and Energy Sector Strategy, which seeks to decrease dependence on expensive imported diesel fuel and build a cleaner, more resilient power system.
BEC currently operates a total of 20.38 MW of solar capacity alongside 2 MWh of battery storage. With ambitious plans to double its renewable generation capacity by 2027, the utility is positioning Berbera as a flagship hub for the renewable energy transition in East Africa. This initiative links critical clean energy infrastructure with the long-term economic resilience and growth of this vital port city.
