Will two solar plants be built in Senegal's southern Casamance region?

DAKAR, Nov 13 (Reuters) - Two solar plants with a combined 60 megawatts (MW) capacity and battery storage will be built in Senegal's southern Casamance region to electrify rural areas, Africa-based project developer Axian Energy said on Wednesday.

Does Senegal need a solar power plant?

Senegal´s power sector has been historically reliant on costly fuel imports, with about 80 percent of its energy mix being oil-based. “The Kael and Kahone solar power plants exemplify our commitment to supporting Senegal's transition to cleaner, more affordable energy, while creating business opportunities for local communities.

How many people in Senegal will get solar power?

Nearly 540,000 people in Senegal will get access to clean and affordable power following the launch of two solar photovoltaic (PV) plants, financed by IFC, the European Investment Bank and Proparco, under the World Bank Group’s Scaling Solar program.

Who sponsors Senegal's solar power plants?

The PV plants, located in Western Senegal, are sponsored by Engie, Meridiam, and the Senegalese Sovereign Wealth Fund for Strategic Investments ( FONSIS ). The competitive tendering process was led by Senegal’s Energy Regulatory Commission ( CRSE ). For more information, please read the press release here.

Does Senegal have access to electricity?

The competitive tendering was led by Senegal’s Energy Regulatory Commission (CRSE). Although the proportion of Senegalese people with access to electricity has increased sharply over the past 30 years, nearly a quarter of the population still lacks access.

Which countries have scaled solar-backed PV projects?

Senegal is the second country to bring Scaling Solar-backed PV projects to the operational stage. In March 2019, the first solar plant financed and tendered under the Scaling Solar program was inaugurated in Zambia.