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

Why should the Gambia invest in solar energy?

To match the rising demand and to provide sustainable and accessible energy to all Gambians, the potential for solar energy investment is immense in The Gambia. The government of The Gambia seeks to increase RE’s contribution to 40% from 2% presently in the coming years.

How much solar power does Gambia have in 2022?

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Gambia only had 2 MW of installed PV capacity at the end of 2022. Gambian utility Nawec recently started building a 23 MW solar project in Jambur, in Gambia's West Coast Region.

What is the energy access rate in Gambia?

With an electricity access rate of just 35%, Gambia introduced the Renewable Energy Act to promote clean energy in 2013. This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused.

What is the PV capacity in Gambia?

The PV systems will range in capacity from 2 kW to 240 kW. The time limit for the acceptance of tenders or requests to participate is Oct. 31. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Gambia only had 2 MW of installed PV capacity at the end of 2022.

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.