Guinea strengthens its solar energy capacities to improve access to electricity
Despite modernization efforts, Guinea still faces a relatively low electricity access rate, estimated at 44%. To address this deficit, the country plans to strengthen its energy infrastructure, particularly by focusing on solar energy.
Construction of two solar power plants to diversify energy sources
The Guinean government has announced the construction of two solar power plants worth a total of $90 million. This project, carried out in collaboration with the company Gigawatt Global, aims to diversify energy sources and meet the growing demand for electricity. According to the information presented by Mr. Soumah, the two plants will together produce 50 megawatts of energy, a significant reinforcement for the national electricity grid.
Focus on the regions of Siguiri and Kouroussa
The project mainly targets the populations of the prefectures of Siguiri and Kouroussa, located in the east of the country. Kaba Fodé Bamoudou, engineer in charge of the project for Gigawatt Global, stressed that Guinea is facing a growing energy need. This program aims not only to satisfy national consumption, but also to promote sub-regional consumption in a context where electrification remains a major challenge.
Access to electricity still limited in certain regions
Access to electricity in Guinea is marked by significant disparities. A 2022 report by the African Development Bank (AfDB) indicates that the electrification rate is 44.1% at the national level, but falls to 19.1% in rural areas. Some regions, such as Haute-Guinée and Guinée forestière, even have an access rate of less than 1%.
Infrastructure challenges and power outages
The capital Conakry, although better equipped, continues to suffer from disruptions due to dysfunctional infrastructure. In early 2024, massive power outages occurred due to a breakdown at the Tombo thermal power plant and a production deficit reducing available energy capacity by 75%.
Previous projects to increase energy capacity
Between 2016 and 2022, the Guinean government implemented several projects to increase electricity production capacity, including the commissioning of the Kaléta (240 MW) and Souapiti (450 MW) hydroelectric power plants. In 2021, Guinea also launched its first photovoltaic power plant connected to the national grid in Khoumagueli. This installation, with a capacity of 40 MW, complements the electricity supplied by the Garafiri hydroelectric power plant, which produces 75 MW.
Conclusion
Guinea is working to fill its electrification gaps, including through the development of solar projects in underserved areas. While progress has been made with the establishment of new infrastructure, the country still faces major challenges, particularly in rural areas and in terms of managing existing infrastructure, to ensure equitable access to electricity for the entire population.
