African solar looks beyond donor nations for investment
Multilateral organizations the World Bank and African Development Bank (AfDB) have played a key role in the development of African solar and want to attract more private capital to a continent with at least 40% of the world’s solar irradiation but currently only 1% of its PV generation capacity.
Ethiopia inviting consultants for planned utility-scale PV project
State-owned utility EEP is looking for consultants to prepare a feasibility study that will encompass such key tasks as hydrology analyses, geotechnical and seismic investigations and assessments of meteorological conditions, solar resources and energy yield.
Tender opens for feasibility study on floating solar in Zambia
The African Development Bank is seeking expressions of interest from consultants to carry out a feasibility study for a floating solar project at a dam in southern Zambia. The deadline for applications is June 15.
Egyptian solar set to expand beyond the massive 1.8 GW Benban PV project
In this edition of the Weekend Read, we turn to Egypt. The gigawatt-scale Benban project showcases the North African country’s solar potential, and premium prices for gas exports make the case for a more diverse energy mix. A nation with grand renewables targets – but slow installation rates – may finally be weaning itself off fossil fuel resources.
Mauritania secures $289.5 million for solar projects, interconnection line
The authorities in Mauritania have obtained $289.5 million of financing for two solar projects, including a $272 million loan – the largest ever granted to the country by the African Development Bank – for a recently approved 225 kV electricity interconnection.
African Development Bank seeking consultants for PV manufacturing study
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has launched an expression of interest for a consulting study on solar manufacturing in the Desert to Power Sahel countries. Interested parties have until June 7 to submit their bids.
African utility secures cash for floating solar studies
Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM) will obtain $2.5 million from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to fund studies into floating solar and battery systems.
Equity investment to back 150 MW of commercial solar in Africa
Norwegian developer Empower New Energy has secured $74 million of mostly public funds from investors and will top it up to build a $100 million, three-year cash pile.
AfDB announces cheap loans to back off-grid solar in Africa
The African Development Bank has announced that European and US donors will provide $20 million of concessional loans to support pay-as-you-go solar companies in sub-Saharan Africa.
Desert to Power secures $300 million of public money
Private Infrastructure Development Group recently made a non-binding commitment in Brussels to a provide funds for a project that aims to bring 10 GW of solar to Africa’s Sahel region.
