Who financed a solar power plant in Niger?

The European Union, the French Development Bank and the government of Niger co-financed the installation. A French consortium made up of Akuo and Sagecom has finished building a 30 MW solar power plant in Gorou Banda, Niger. The Niger government had initially planned the project to have a capacity of 50 MW.

Where is solar energy used in Niger?

Solar energy is well-suited for use in Niamey and Zinder, located at lower latitudes, as they show less variability in solar radiation throughout the year. Niger has a long history of solar energy use, which began in the mid-1960s with the establishment of the Centre National d'Énergie Solaire (National Solar Energy Centre; CNES).

How has solar technology been promoted in Niger?

Solar PV and other solar energy technologies have been promoted in Niger through various outlets, including the national school television programme. Installation of solar technology has continued, particularly in PV pumping areas and through education and health infrastructure electrification.

How can Niger balance its energy mix?

This transformative project, funded by the World Bank through the International Development Association (IDA), will enable Niger to better balance its energy mix, which is currently largely dominated by thermal energy. This initiative is particularly crucial for a country that frequently faces climatic shocks.

What is Niamey's new power plant?

The facility, which is located about 10 kilometers from the capital, Niamey, was developed as part of improving the city's electricity supply under the aegis of the national electricity company, Nigelec. Production will hjit 53 GWh in the first year and will be fed into the Nigelec network. The project secured €30 million.

Does Abdoul-Kader have a solar power plant?

If Abdoul-Kader's business is flourishing today, it's thanks to the new Ingall solar power plant. With a 750 kilowatts capacity, the plant now provides a 24-hour electricity service to the entire commune, when power only used to be available from 10 am to midnight. “Previously we all slept in the dark.