• The largest photovoltaic project with battery energy storage system (BESS) in West Africa
• A source of clean and reliable energy for 800,000 people according to Senelec
• A key project in the diversification of West Africa’s energy mix
AXIAN Energy has obtained financing of 84 million euros for the construction of the Kolda solar power plant, located in Casamance, thanks to a strategic partnership with three leading financial institutions: Emerging Africa and Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF) and the Netherlands Development Bank (FMO), acting as co-mandated lead arrangers, alongside Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH (DEG). The support of these development institutions demonstrates the potential of the Kolda project to generate social and environmental returns on investment while contributing to the region’s energy security.
Scheduled to be completed in 2026, this plant located in the Kolda region, is the first solar project implemented in Casamance and stands out as the largest photovoltaic project combined with a battery energy storage system (BESS) in Africa from the West. This ambitious infrastructure will set a benchmark for the region by combining large-scale solar power generation with cutting-edge battery storage technology. This solar farm will have a capacity of 60 MWp and will provide green electricity to nearly 800,000 people according to studies carried out by Senelec.
The 72 MWh battery storage will help secure electricity supply for three hours during evening peak hours, and increase the stability of the electricity network. This essential technology supports the integration of additional renewable energy capacity into the electricity supply, contributing to Senegal’s goal of reaching 40% renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Benjamin Memmi, general manager of AXIAN Energy, said in the press release that “the Kolda solar farm project reflects our commitment to contributing to energy inclusion in Senegal and across the continent, in line with sustainable development goals. of the United Nations. Through a fully renewable project, we will be able to provide clean solar energy to approximately 89,000 homes in Senegal. By integrating innovative battery storage technology, we are setting a new standard for sustainable energy projects in the region, strengthening grid stability and optimizing the use of renewable resources. We are deeply grateful to our financial partners, EAAIF, FMO and DEG, for their trust and support in realizing this initiative, as well as to the Senegalese authorities and Senelec for their vision and support for renewable energy in the energy sector. “.
“The State of Senegal and Senelec are delighted with this project which will benefit nearly 89,000 households in Senegal. This solar power plant will boost the economic and social development of the Kolda region through the planned corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, generate sources of income and strengthen the security of populations while guaranteeing the preservation of the environment. . This strategic partnership between Senelec, AXIAN ENERGY and financial institutions strengthens the energy policy of the State of Senegal in the promotion of the energy mix and the diversification of renewable energy sources”, for its part underlined Senelec.
About AXIAN ENERGY
Energy division of the AXIAN Group, AXIAN Energy is a Pan-African Developer in large-scale renewable energy projects. AXIAN Energy is driven by a dual mission: to promote innovation in renewable energies and to participate in energy inclusion on the African continent. The division is present in 7 countries in Africa through its subsidiaries: NEA – WeLight – JOVENA – EYDON.
AXIAN Energy has a portfolio of operations with a renewable capacity of 130MW, a pipeline of 800MW and aims for 1GW of installed capacity by 2030. As an African player with solid experience and a talented team of 750 employees, AXIAN Energy is a leading partner to drive the development of structured projects in the field of renewable energies for the continent.
