What is the first grid-connected solar PV array in Guinea?

The solar energy facility will be the first grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) array in Guinea. The project is being developed by InfraCo Africa with the support of Aldwych Africa Developments Ltd, in partnership with experienced French solar PV developer, Solvéo Energie S.A.S, a subsidiary of Solvéo Developpement.

How much solar power does Guinea have?

Guinea had an installed PV capacity of just 13 MW at the end of 2020. Infraco Africa, a unit of U.K.-based Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), and Solveo Energie, a unit of French renewable energy developer Solveo, have secured a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) for a large-scale solar project under development in Guinea.

How does solar power work in Guinea?

It combines photovoltaic solar energy with hydroelectricity produced in Guinea, reduces the need for thermal energy and reduces the cost of electricity,” said Jean-Marc Mateos, President of the Solveo Group. Guinea’s has a national electrification rate of 35.4%.

What is the 88 MW solar project in Guinea?

The project is likely the first phase of an 88 MW PV project announced by the French government in April 2017. The French authorities said at the time that the project was expected to be built in two 44 MW phases and to be developed by Solveo Energy. Guinea has had very limited development of solar energy to date.

How khoumagueli solar plant will benefit the National Grid?

The combination of hydro and solar energy will help in maximising delivery of renewable energy to the national grid. The Khoumagueli Solar plant is expected to mitigate against the impact of fluctuating rainfall on hydro power generation at the Garafiri plant.

What does the PPA sign mean for the khoumagueli solar project?

“The PPA signing is a key milestone for the Khoumagueli Solar project, which will deliver reliable, affordable power to Guinea’s homes and businesses.