Mauritania Boosts Energy Security Infrastructure with World Bank Loan
Mauritania is making significant strides in its energy infrastructure, thanks to a $300 million World Bank loan for the Energy Security and Transition Project. This initiative is a crucial step toward improving electricity access and promoting sustainable energy solutions throughout the nation.
Expanding Energy Access and Transmission
Mauritania is embarking on a major initiative to strengthen its national energy infrastructure, backed by a substantial World Bank loan that underscores a global commitment to boosting energy security, expanding electricity access, and integrating sustainable energy solutions. The Energy Security and Transition Project will focus on enhancing Mauritania’s production and transmission capabilities, aligning with the country’s ambitious goal of achieving universal electricity access while supporting regional energy integration.
The project includes the construction of a 225kV transmission line and a 225kV/90kV substation in Nouakchott, along with a 50MW battery energy storage system to stabilize the national grid and improve energy reliability. It also aims to connect isolated regions to the national grid, providing more people with access to reliable electricity.
Investing in Sustainable Solutions and Private Sector Growth
This project is set to improve electricity access for 350,000 people and bolster energy supply reliability for 2.4 million residents. By investing in production, transmission, and distribution infrastructure, the project is also designed to attract greater private sector participation in Mauritania’s energy sector.
David Malpass, President of the World Bank Group, highlighted the project’s importance, stating, “This project will help Mauritania achieve universal access to electricity and integrate into the regional energy market. By investing in sustainable energy solutions, we are also contributing to the global fight against climate change.”
Advancing Regional Energy Integration
The project also supports Mauritania’s integration into the West African Power Pool (WAPP) by connecting its electricity grid with those of neighboring countries. This will allow the nation to export surplus electricity and foster regional energy cooperation.
The initiative is part of a broader World Bank effort to promote sustainable energy across Africa, with a commitment of $5 billion for energy projects over the next five years. This funding supports investments in renewables, energy efficiency, and electrification.
The Energy Security and Transition Project in Mauritania is one of several World Bank-supported initiatives promoting sustainable energy in Africa. Notably, the bank also supports the $150 million Scaling Solar Program, which develops solar power projects, and the $100 million Regional Off-Grid Electrification Project, designed to expand electricity access in remote areas.
The World Bank’s investment in Mauritania’s energy infrastructure is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economic development. By enhancing electricity access and promoting sustainable energy, the project will help Mauritania achieve its national objectives while contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
For more on regional renewable energy initiatives, see Mauritania and Germany Partner on Renewable Energy Project and explore the broader Global Solar Report.
