Global South Utilities completes 50 MW solar, 15 MWh BESS project in Central African Republic

Construction of a 50 MW solar project tied to 15 MWh of battery energy storage in the Central African Republic is now complete. UAE-based developer Global South Utilities (GSU) broke ground on the Sakaï solar project, southwest of the capital Bangui, in August last year.

According to a statement published by the Emirates News Agency, the completed project is the largest infrastructure project in the Central African Republic’s history and increases its electricity generation capacity by over 60%.

The facility features more than 80,000 solar panels and 156 solar inverters. A social media post published by the government of the Central African Republic adds that it will provide electricity to more than 300,000 households through connection to the Central African Energy Network.

During an inauguration speech, Interim Minister for Energy and Hydraulic Development, Rufin Benam Beltoungou, said the first stage implementation of the project will provide 15 MW of energy to the neighbourhoods located in the third and ninth districts of Bangui, before extending to other districts by December next year.

GSU says the Sakaï project creates the foundation for progress across the country’s wider economy.

“More reliable electricity will support healthcare, education and public services, enable businesses and industries to grow, attract new investment and open greater opportunities for communities across the Central African Republic,” the developer added.

The Africa Solar Industry Association (AFSIA) has tracked 92.1 MW of operational solar projects in the Central African Republic, according to findings in its project database, alongside 43.1 MWh of battery storage capacity.