Côte d’Ivoire has taken a significant leap forward in renewable energy with the launch of a new solar power plant capable of lighting up to 35,000 homes. This innovative project, located in Boundiali in the northern part of the country, is a testament to the nation’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and climate change mitigation. The plant has been operational since June 2023, contributing up to 37MW of clean energy to the Ivorian national grid.
The inauguration ceremony was marked by the presence of Ivorian Prime Minister Beugré Mambé and German Parliamentary State Secretary Bärbel Kofler, highlighting the international cooperation underpinning this project. The development was financially supported by KfW Development Bank with a funding package of €37 million (around $40.1m), which included a loan of €27m (around $29.2m) on behalf of the German Federal Government and a grant of €10m (around $10.8m) on behalf of the European Union.
Spanning 38 hectares, the Boundiali solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant boasts nearly 70,000 solar modules that glisten in the West African sun, producing sustainable electricity. Owned and operated by CI-Energies (Côte d’Ivoire Energies), the facility is a beacon of green energy production in the region. Saft, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies, was tasked with delivering a 10MW Energy Storage System (ESS) for the project, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the power output.
Constructed by Eiffage Energie Système and its subsidiary RMT, the project involved extensive preparatory work, including land clearing, infrastructure development, and the installation of an advanced battery energy storage system (BESS). This 10MWh BESS plays a crucial role in stabilizing the energy generated by the solar panels, allowing for consistent power supply while reducing CO2 emissions by 27,000 tonnes annually.
Eiffage Energie Système’s meticulous work also included the installation of high-voltage transformers and underground lines, integrating the Boundiali plant seamlessly into Côte d’Ivoire’s national grid. This integration is pivotal in bolstering the country’s renewable energy capacity and contributing to the national goal of increasing the share of renewable energies in its electricity supply to 45% by 2030.
The Boundiali solar power plant is not just an infrastructure project; it represents a significant stride towards environmental sustainability, with an expected reduction of 35,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions every year. It stands as a model for solar energy expansion in Côte d’Ivoire and a vital component of the country’s strategy to combat climate change. As Côte d’Ivoire continues to embrace renewable energy, the Boundiali solar power plant is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to a sustainable future.
