Guinea-Bissau has launched the Solar Energy Scale-Up and Access Project, a $43.5 million initiative aimed at boosting renewable energy and improving electricity access. Supported by the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), the project will generate 22.3 MW of solar power and enhance the country’s grid system.
Guinea-Bissau solar energy scale-up and access initiative
Guinea-Bissau has embarked on a transformative journey with the launch of a pivotal Solar Energy Scale-Up and Access Project supported by the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA). This ambitious $43.5 million project is designed to significantly boost the country’s renewable energy capacity and improve electricity access. It marks a major step forward in Guinea-Bissau’s efforts to transition to renewable energy, aligning with global sustainability goals.
The project will introduce 22.3 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic capacity to Guinea-Bissau’s energy system. This includes a 10 MW solar power plant in Bissau and additional 12.3 MW solar plants in the regional centers of Bafatá, Buba, Canchungo, and Gabú. These solar installations will be connected to the national grid, providing essential electricity to urban areas.
In addition to solar power generation, the project will incorporate 18.8 MW of battery energy storage systems and construct 23.5 kilometers of new transmission lines. This infrastructure will stabilize the electricity supply and support the integration of renewable energy into the grid, ensuring a reliable power supply.
Expanding electricity access through Guinea-Bissau solar energy
The Solar Energy Scale-Up and Access Project will also address the challenge of electricity access in rural areas by deploying 1,000 solar-powered mini-grids. These mini-grids will bring reliable electricity to communities that are currently off-grid, dramatically improving living standards. Additionally, the project will support the installation of 2,000 streetlights, enhancing safety and security in both urban and rural areas.
To ensure the sustainability of these investments, the project will subsidize the operation and maintenance of the solar plants and mini-grids for five years. This initiative aims to build local capacity and create jobs in the renewable energy sector, fostering economic growth.
Economic and environmental impact of Guinea-Bissau solar energy
The World Bank estimates that the project will provide nearly 4,500 new electricity connections, benefiting more than 50,000 people across urban and rural areas. By 2028, it is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 24,000 tons of CO2 equivalent and generate $3.2 million in economic benefits. The project will also improve the financial sustainability of Guinea-Bissau’s energy utility, EAGB, by reducing system losses and increasing electricity sales.
Bubacar Djaló, Guinea-Bissau’s Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, emphasized the importance of the project for the country’s energy transition, stating, “This project is a key milestone in our journey towards a sustainable energy future. By harnessing solar power, we are not only addressing our energy needs but also contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.”
Boosting Guinea-Bissau solar energy capacity and infrastructure
The Solar Energy Scale-Up and Access Project is part of Guinea-Bissau’s broader efforts to expand its solar energy capacity. In recent years, the country has made significant strides in developing its renewable energy sector. Earlier this year, Guinea-Bissau inaugurated its first large-scale solar power plant in Bissau, built by the Chinese company Sinomach. This plant, with a capacity of 20 MW, is expected to provide electricity to more than 120,000 people.
In addition to the Bissau plant, Guinea-Bissau has several other solar projects in the pipeline. A 5 MW solar plant in Buba is currently under construction, and a 10 MW solar plant in Bolama is expected to begin construction soon. These projects will further increase the country’s renewable energy capacity and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
The Guinea-Bissau solar project: 30 MWp Initiative promises amazing benefits for the region, signaling a monumental stride towards achieving energy security and sustainability. The Solar Energy Scale-Up and Access Project is a significant milestone in Guinea-Bissau’s journey towards a sustainable energy future. With the support of the World Bank and other international partners, the country is well on its way to achieving its renewable energy goals.
