The Gambia 2kw solar system on grid

Will a new solar plant increase energy demand in the Gambia?

Energy demand in The Gambia has increased by 5.5% per year in recent years and today’s connection of the new 23 MWp solar plant to the national energy grid will significantly increase Gambia's current generation capacity of 98 MW and enable electrification of rural areas. A strong commitment

What is the energy system in Gambia?

The Gambian electricity network mainly consists of minigrids that the government hopes to improve by transforming into hybrid minigrids, integrated with renewable energy generation capacity. With an electricity access rate of just 35%, Gambia introduced the Renewable Energy Act to promote clean energy in 2013.

Does the Gambia have solar energy resources?

The Gambia has significant solar energy resources which can be deployed via solar PV plants, which have become price competitive with thermal plants and attractive for advancing national renewable energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets. IRENA (2018) has estimated national solar potential at 428 MW.

Can the Gambia transform the energy sector?

An unprecedented level of support from the international community provides The Gambia with the opportunity to transform the energy sector and emerge as one of the leading energy sectors in the sub-region and the African continent. In this context, the Electricity Roadmap has undergone its third update since 2015.

How will 'solarisation' transform the electricity sector of the Gambia?

The project will transform the electricity sector of The Gambia via through the ‘Solarisation’ of up to 1000 schools and 100 health facilities especially the remote areas of the country. Furthermore it will provide beneficiaries in the education and health sectors with reliable and clean energy thereby reducing our carbon footprint.

How does a large scale solar PV project benefit the Gambia?

The project contributes to gainful employment creation in The Gambia with 1,250 direct jobs created from the construction phase to operation and maintenance. To ensure sustainability, a three-year operations and maintenance contract (O&M) has been signed as large scale solar PV is entirely new to the sector.