Electricity reforms in Gabon

Gabon is transforming its electricity sector by increasing production and restructuring the state-run Gabonese Water and Energy Company (SEEG). The country is also facing ongoing power supply challenges, including frequent outages, which have made electricity access a key issue for the new minister in charge of the sector.

New minister faces urgent challenges

Olivier Mouckocko became the minister for Universal Access to Water and Energy on October 11, during a period of electricity shortages. He is the fourth person to hold this role since September 2023 and must manage several ongoing projects aimed at improving energy production and reforming the SEEG.

President calls for private sector involvement

President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema urged investors to help with the transport and distribution of water and electricity in a speech to the nation on August 16. He highlighted the poor condition of current infrastructure, which is described as outdated or overburdened.

New power plants delayed

Nine dual-fuel turbines, capable of producing 255 megawatts (MW) of electricity, were originally scheduled to be completed by mid-November. However, the deadline has been pushed back by three months, according to local media. These turbines will be used in several power plants across Gabon.

Hydroelectric project nears completion

The Kinguélé Aval hydroelectric project, with a capacity of 35 MW, is nearly finished. Construction is at 95 percent, and the installation of three turbines is expected to begin between October and December. Once completed, the project is projected to supply more than half of the electricity used in the Greater Libreville area.

SEEG to be split into two entities

Starting January 1, 2027, the SEEG will be replaced by two separate organizations: The Gabonese Water and Electricity of Gabon. The transition will take place over a year, during which the SEEG will continue its operations. The government has received interest from the private sector in supporting this reorganization.

Electricity access in Gabon

According to the World Bank, 95.1 percent of Gabon’s population had access to electricity in 2024. However, access in rural areas remains much lower, at 51.3 percent, highlighting the disparity in energy availability across the country.