KEY POINTS
- GSU commissioned a 5 MW solar plant in Berbera capable of powering about 28,000 households annually.
- The project will generate around 10 GWh of electricity and cut nearly 6,890 metric tonnes of CO2 each year.
- Renewable capacity in Berbera is expected to double by 2027 under the Green Berbera initiative.
Abu Dhabi based Global South Utilities has commissioned a 5 megawatt peak solar photovoltaic plant in Berbera. The project marks a step forward in Somaliland’s shift toward cleaner energy.
The grid connected facility is located in the Gulf of Aden port city. It is designed to supply electricity equal to the needs of about 28,000 households each year. Company officials say the plant will generate around 10 gigawatt hours of clean electricity annually. The goal is to reduce reliance on diesel fired generation.
The project is expected to cut about 6,890 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
Solar expansion in a strategic port city
Berbera plays a key role in Somaliland’s trade and logistics network. It serves as an important gateway along the Gulf of Aden. Energy demand has risen as the city’s economic activity has grown. This has placed pressure on diesel based power systems.
Global South Utilities said the plant is part of its Green Berbera initiative. The program aims to move the city away from diesel dependence. It promotes a renewable based system supported by battery storage.
The facility includes 11.2 kilometers of 33 kilovolt transmission lines. It also includes related substations. These upgrades are expected to strengthen the local grid and improve distribution.
Partnership with local utility
GSU owns a 45 percent stake in Berbera Electricity Company. The company is the city’s sole power utility. Through this partnership, the Abu Dhabi based developer has expanded its role in the local energy sector.
Berbera Electricity Company operates 20.38 megawatts of solar capacity. It also has 2 megawatt hours of battery storage. Renewable capacity is expected to double by 2027.
Company officials said coordination with local stakeholders has been important to the project. They described the effort as part of a broader strategy to build a more reliable and cost stable power system.
Green Berbera and long term energy goals
Ali Alshimmari, chief executive and managing director of GSU and vice chairman of Berbera Electricity Company, said the initiative aims to deliver environmental and economic gains.
He said cleaner energy will strengthen Berbera’s position as a regional port hub in the Horn of Africa. Stable electricity costs are essential for trade, logistics and industrial growth.
The project reflects a wider trend in emerging markets. Renewable systems are increasingly replacing diesel generation.
Renewable capacity in Berbera is expected to grow in the coming years. Officials say the city could become an example of how solar and storage investments can reshape power systems in fast growing port economies.
Global South Utilities said it will continue working with local partners to support the transition and strengthen Berbera’s economic role.
