Benin advances solar energy plans

Benin has announced the financing of four photovoltaic power plants totaling 62 megawatts, supported by the Axian group. The initiative, backed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Proparco, aims to boost national electricity production starting in 2028 and marks progress in the development of independent energy producers in the country.

Financing agreement signed

Axian has signed a 30 million euro financing agreement with the IFC and Proparco to develop the four photovoltaic power plants. These installations are described as the first solar program in Benin supported by independent electricity producers.

Funding sources identified

The 30 million euro financing package is provided by the IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, and Proparco, the private sector financing branch of the French Development Agency (AFD). The IFC also mobilizes resources from the Clean Technology Fund, an international mechanism intended to finance the deployment of clean technologies in developing countries.

Project details and locations

The funds are intended for the IPP50 program, which covers the construction and operation of four photovoltaic power plants in the cities of Natitingou, Djougou, Parakou, and Bohicon. According to Axian, the total cost of the IPP50 program is estimated at 45 million euros. The project is part of a structured public-private partnership around concession contracts granted by the Beninese government.

Electricity production and contracts

Once commissioned, the installations should produce about 110 gigawatt-hours of electricity per year. This production would represent an increase of about 17% in national electricity production during the period 2028-2035. The electricity produced will be sold to the Beninese Electricity Production Company (SBPE), under long-term electricity purchase contracts.

Completion timeline set

The commercial commissioning of the four power plants is scheduled for the first quarter of 2028.