Making work of promises made at the 2015 Paris Climate Conference, Senegal prepares to embrace solar power with two large-scale projects that are expected to significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions whilst providing a boost to the country’s generating capacity. Work at the construction sites is progressing at accelerated speeds with financing provided by a number of European development agencies. The solar power facilities will inject an additional 50MW into the country’s grid.
Senelec, Senegal’s publicly-owned power company, has moved to the forefront of the drive to green the country’s energy supply and stands at the cusp of a large-scale expansion aimed at improving both service dependability and access. The company has signed a 25-year power purchase agreement with the solar power generators at a highly competitive price which ensures improved access to currents and future customers. Senelec has also managed to aggressively slash power outings.
Senelec currently generates in excess of 650MW and, as a public company, is committed to enhance power distribution throughout the country. Moreover, Senelec has adopted a programme that has furthered the professionalism of its personnel and labour conditions. As a result, the quality of services has also improved by leaps and bounds.
The company tripled its generating capacity over the last 25 years and has established strategic partnerships with privately-owned power generators which now supply about a quarter of its energy.
The CFI.co judging panel commends Senelec on its forward-looking approach and declares the company winner of the 2016 Best ESG Power Producer West Africa.