Guinea has launched a major solar power project to provide clean energy to 72 rural communities and install solar streetlights in 20 urban areas. This initiative, supported by the World Bank, aims to boost the country’s energy infrastructure and support sustainable development. You can read more about similar projects advancing power solutions in Guinea in this article about Guinea Power Agreements.
Expanding Guinea Solar Power Infrastructure
Guinea’s Ministry of Energy, Hydraulics, and Hydrocarbons has announced a major solar power project to bring clean energy to 72 rural communities. This initiative will also install solar-powered streetlights in 20 urban areas, significantly boosting the country’s renewable energy infrastructure. Further details about this impactful project can be found in this article on Siguiri solar power.
The project is part of the Guinea Rural Electrification Project (PERG), a major initiative supported by the World Bank. Under PERG, 12 mini solar power plants with capacities ranging from 100 to 500 kWp (kilowatt peak) will be built and equipped with battery storage systems, ensuring consistent power supply even when the sun isn’t shining. The project also includes the installation of 1,250 solar-powered streetlights in urban areas.
The contract for this large-scale project was awarded to the Turkish energy company, Mafa Elektrik, which specializes in renewable energy and construction. Mafa Elektrik will develop 12 photovoltaic (PV) solar power plants, with capacities ranging from 100 to 500 kWp, in 12 strategically selected rural areas across Guinea. The company will also install 1,250 solar-powered streetlights in 20 urban areas, including Conakry, the capital of Guinea.
This project is expected to provide clean energy to over 11,000 rural households. Once completed, Guinea’s national electricity company (Electricité de Guinée – EDG) will take over the operation and management of the new solar power plants.
Advancing Guinea Solar Power Goals for Rural Communities
The Guinea Rural Electrification Project (PERG) aims to provide clean energy to over 11,000 rural households, significantly improving their quality of life. Once completed, Guinea’s national electricity company (EDG) will be responsible for the operation and management of these new solar power plants, ensuring long-term sustainability.
This project is part of a broader effort by the Guinean government to improve access to electricity in rural areas, a key factor in promoting economic development and reducing inequality. It also aligns with Guinea’s ambitious renewable energy targets, which aim to increase the share of renewables in the country’s energy mix to 30% by 2030.
The project is supported by the World Bank, which has provided $50 million in funding. This funding is part of a larger $200 million initiative to support Guinea’s energy sector. The World Bank’s support is crucial in helping Guinea achieve its goal of universal access to electricity by 2030.
Benefits of Guinea Solar Power for Sustainable Development
The solar power project is expected to bring several benefits to Guinea. First, it will provide clean and reliable energy to thousands of rural households. This will improve living conditions, enabling access to essential services like lighting, refrigeration, and communication, and support economic development in rural areas by powering businesses and creating opportunities.
Second, the project will reduce Guinea’s reliance on fossil fuels, helping to lower greenhouse gas emissions. This is an important step toward combating climate change and promoting sustainable development in Guinea.
Finally, the project will create jobs and stimulate economic growth. The construction and operation of the solar power plants will provide employment opportunities for local communities. Moreover, the availability of reliable electricity will support the growth of small businesses and other economic activities in the region, fostering economic diversification and resilience.
The solar power project in Guinea is a significant step toward achieving the country’s renewable energy goals and broader development objectives. With the support of the World Bank, this project will provide clean energy to thousands of rural households, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable development.
