Energy imports dominate supply

Imports accounted for approximately 60 percent of the electricity supply in Benin in 2024, exposing companies to difficulties from foreign suppliers, including interruptions that increase their costs and weaken their competitiveness.

Recent outages highlight dependency

In October 2026, new power outages in Benin highlighted the country's reliance on foreign energy sources and the government's efforts to develop national production. Authorities have been trying for a decade to reduce the country's exposure to foreign suppliers, which continue to disrupt households and businesses.

Supply restrictions from neighbors

In October 2026, several areas experienced repeated interruptions, with public production and distribution companies citing supply restrictions from Ghana and Nigeria as the primary cause. According to a 2024 World Bank survey, 86.1 percent of companies in Benin experience blackouts.

Cost of backup solutions

To mitigate the impact, some companies invest in backup solutions. A 2025 study by the Clean Air Task Force found that generators, stabilizers, and other substitution means represented 44 percent of the electricity expenses of connected companies studied based on 2015 data.

National production growth

Since President Patrice Talon took power in 2016, Benin has accelerated efforts to increase national production. Almost non-existent a decade ago, national production reached 215 MW in 2025, thanks to the construction of the Maria-Gléta 2 thermal power plant (127 MW) and the Pobè solar power plant (75 MWc).

Government's energy goals

In May 2021, Talon promised "energy autonomy" within thirty months, though this goal has not yet been achieved. His successor, former Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, continues the effort, with a program planning at least 100 MW additional every two years.

New solar projects announced

In late October 2026, AMEA Power signed a memorandum of understanding with the government to develop a 100 MW solar power plant associated with batteries. Although the company has not yet communicated the cost of the project or its schedule for implementation, other projects are more advanced.

Financing agreements signed

On October 29, 2026, financing agreements of 30 million euros were signed for four solar power plants supported by AXIAN Energy, totaling 62 MWc. These plants, located between Bohicon, Parakou, Djougou, and Natitingou, are expected to be operational at the beginning of 2028.

Hydroelectric and gas initiatives

Beyond solar energy, the authorities are betting on hydroelectric power, with the presidential program planning the Dogo-Bis complex on the Ouémé river, estimated to produce 342 GWh annually. The Beninese Electricity Production Company (SBPE) also cites the Vossa and Bétérou projects, which together are expected to represent more than 200 MW.

Fuel and distribution challenges

This diversification of electricity supply sources must respond to another dependence: foreign fuel for thermal production. According to the Pact, the SBPE's gas supplies have decreased on average by 12 percent per year between 2021 and 2024, forcing the use of more heavy fuel oil.

Modernizing the grid

Modernizing the distribution network is also necessary, as about 24.6 percent of the electricity injected in 2024 was either lost during transport or consumed without being properly accounted for or billed. Solar energy must also maintain its contribution after sunset.

Storage solutions in progress

The Pobè solar power plant currently does not have a storage system, but batteries with a capacity of 160 MWh are expected in September 2027. These new capacities will need to accompany industrial growth and the expansion of access to electricity.

Expanding electricity access

Within the framework of Mission 300, led by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, Benin aims to serve approximately 928,000 additional households by 2030. Although the Pact acknowledges delays in planned capacities, the realization of the announced projects and investments will be a first test.

Testing the pace of growth

In the face of growing demand, it remains to be seen whether national production increases quickly enough to reduce imports.