Why is Burkina Faso launching a solar power plant in Komsilga?

Loading In a significant step towards enhancing electricity supply and sustainable development, Burkina Faso signs an agreement for a 50 MWp solar power plant in Komsilga. The initiative, led by the Minister of Energy and Energie Plus, aims to fortify renewable energy contributions, fostering economic growth and improved access to electricity.

Does Burkina Faso have electricity?

Bondukuy and Djigouera are small villages in the south near Bobo-Dioulasso. In the many small villages of Burkina Faso, there is usually no electricity, although every now and then you will see a solar panel or rechargeable car battery running a television or stereo, and you might find an occasional gas-operated refrigerator.

Will a 50 MWp solar power plant bolster Burkina Faso's electricity supply strategy?

In a pivotal move to bolster Burkina Faso’s electricity supply strategy, the Minister of Energy, Mines, and Quarries, Simon-Pierre BOUSSIM, and Serge CONSEIGA, General Director of Energie Plus, sealed an agreement for the construction of a 50-megawatt peak (50 MWp) solar power plant in the commune of Komsilga, Burkina Faso.

What is Wärtsilä doing in Burkina Faso?

Wärtsilä has delivered a 15 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant to the independent power producer (IPP) Essakane Solar SAS in Burkina Faso. The solar PV plant was constructed next to a 55 MW Wärtsilä power plant running on heavy fuel oil. The engine power plant provides backup, while the solar farm produces energy during the day.

What is the largest engine-solar PV hybrid power plant in Africa?

The solar PV plant and the engine power plant are controlled and operated in synchronisation, making it the largest engine-solar PV hybrid power plant in Africa. IAMGOLD Essakane SA is the largest privately held business in Burkina Faso.

How does the Essakane gold mine in Burkina Faso get power?

The Essakane gold mine in Burkina Faso receives its needed power from Africa’s largest engine-solar PV hybrid power plant delivered by Wärtsilä. Benefits for the mine include reduced fuel costs and a smaller carbon footprint.