Burkina Faso takes a new step towards energy transition with the financing of the Dédougou photovoltaic solar power plant, amounting to 6 million euros or 3,935,742,000 FCFA. The operation combines a concessional loan of 2.5 million euros and a repayable grant of 3.5 million euros, supported by FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development company.
The project is also supported by the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) of the African Development Bank (AfDB). The financing agreement was signed in Paris on July 18, in the presence of technical and financial partners, developer Qair, as well as legal representatives from A&O Shearman and Trinity law firms.
Part of the Desert to Power initiative led by the AfDB, the Dédougou project aims to make the Sahel the largest solar energy zone in the world. The power plant, which will be operated by an Independent Power Producer (IPP), is linked to a 25-year contract with SONABEL.
According to Daniel Schroth, Director of Renewable Energy at the AfDB, this project represents a turning point towards sustainable and inclusive energy. It should help diversify the national energy mix, reduce production costs, and improve access to electricity in Burkina Faso.
Qair, already active in Zano since 2023 with a 24 MW power plant, thus confirms its commitment to the country’s energy transition. “This second project illustrates our long-term commitment to Africa,” emphasized Abdoulaye Touré, CFO of Qair Africa.
With this power plant, Burkina Faso strengthens its attractiveness for private green investments.
