The Gambia has officially launched the Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP), a $121 million initiative aimed at expanding electricity access and improving network reliability across the country. This project, co-supported by the World Bank, the European Union, and the European Investment Bank, is expected to connect over 685,000 Gambians to the electricity grid.
GERMP: A Major Leap for the Gambia Electricity Project
The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project (GERMP) emerged as a pivotal initiative to address the country’s energy challenges. The project — which was officially launched on November 13, 2023 — is a $121 million investment aimed at transforming the Gambia’s electricity infrastructure.
Supported by the World Bank, the European Union, and the European Investment Bank, GERMP is set to connect over 685,000 Gambians to the national electricity grid. The project’s key objectives include extending the grid, modernizing generation and transmission facilities, and enhancing the overall reliability of electricity supply.
GERMP’s scope is extensive, with significant investments in the construction of new substations and the extension of the transmission and distribution (T&D) network. The project has already achieved notable milestones, including the completion of the Laminkoto-Diabugu transmission line and the Soma substation, providing electricity to over 10,000 rural households.
Transformative Impact of the Gambia Electricity Project on Rural Communities
GERMP’s impact is most visible in rural areas, where access to electricity was previously limited or non-existent. In villages like Diabugu, the connection to the grid has brought significant changes to daily life. Residents can now enjoy the benefits of electricity, such as improved lighting, refrigeration, and access to information through television and radio.
For many villagers, the arrival of electricity has been transformative. Families can now preserve food with refrigerators, reducing waste and improving food security. Children can study under electric lights, enhancing their educational opportunities. The ability to charge mobile phones has also improved communication and access to information.
The project’s impact extends beyond individual households. Community institutions, such as schools and health clinics, have also benefited from the reliable electricity supply. In Diabugu, the local school now has improved lighting, making it easier for students to study in the evenings. The health clinic can operate more efficiently with the support of electric-powered equipment.
The Gambia Electricity Project and the Nation’s Energy Reform Agenda
GERMP is a key component of the Gambia’s broader energy reform agenda. The project aligns with the government’s goal of increasing electricity access to 60% by 2027, with a focus on both urban and rural areas. The initiative is also part of the Gambia’s commitment to achieving universal access to electricity by 2030, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
The project is also contributing to the Gambia’s transition to renewable energy. GERMP has facilitated the construction of solar power plants and the installation of solar streetlights in major towns, including Banjul, Barra, and Farafenni. A 23 MW solar power facility with 8 MWh of battery storage was recently inaugurated in the Gambia, further bolstering the country’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
GERMP is not only about expanding access to electricity but also about improving the quality and reliability of the power supply. The project includes investments in the modernization of existing power infrastructure, ensuring that the electricity grid can meet the growing demand from households and businesses.
Economic and Social Benefits of the Gambia Electricity Project
The Gambia Electricity Restoration and Modernization Project is more than just an infrastructure development initiative; it is a catalyst for economic and social change. By expanding access to electricity, GERMP is creating opportunities for economic growth, improving living standards, and enhancing the quality of life for thousands of Gambians.
The project is expected to have a long-lasting impact on the Gambia’s economy. With reliable electricity, businesses can operate more efficiently, leading to increased productivity and job creation. In rural areas, the availability of electricity can support the development of small industries, such as food processing and handicrafts, providing additional income opportunities for local communities.
GERMP is also contributing to the Gambia’s efforts to address climate change. By investing in renewable energy and modernizing the electricity grid, the project is helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development. The use of solar power in particular is a key component of the Gambia’s strategy to transition to a low-carbon economy.
With the support of the World Bank, the European Union, and the European Investment Bank, the Gambia is making significant strides towards achieving its energy goals. As the project continues to expand, it will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Gambia’s energy sector and supporting the country’s economic development.