By Faridat Salifu
In a major stride towards sustainable energy development, the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) has entered a partnership with Canadian company SkyPower to collaborate on the ambitious Green Giant solar project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
This partnership signifies a substantial advancement in the first phase of the project, which aims to establish a capacity of 200 MW.
The Green Giant solar project, initially announced in September 2020 alongside the signing of a power purchase agreement with the National Electricity Company (SNEL), is set to become a pivotal player in the transition to carbon neutrality in the DRC and the wider African region.
The collaboration between SkyPower and AFC underscores a commitment to rapid industrialization, local job creation, and sustainable economic growth.
With all necessary approvals secured and land allocations completed, construction is anticipated to commence by 2025, heralding a new era of renewable energy development in the region.
Upon completion and connection to the SNEL grid, the Green Giant project is expected to be SkyPower’s inaugural operational venture in Africa, offering significant socio-economic benefits including the creation of 30,000 jobs in the DRC.
Notably, AFC’s collaboration with SkyPower signifies the investment company’s expanding portfolio in renewable energy projects across Africa.
Under the leadership of Samaila Zubairu, AFC has been actively involved in driving renewable energy initiatives, including holding majority shares in Cabeolica – an independent power producer operating wind turbines on Cape Verde islands.
Moreover, AFC’s support for projects like the upcoming Ghoubet wind farm in Djibouti underscores the organization’s commitment to fostering sustainable energy solutions on the continent.
As construction progresses and milestones are achieved, the Green Giant project stands as a testament to the collective efforts of AFC and SkyPower in advancing renewable energy infrastructure in the DRC, with far-reaching implications for the region’s energy landscape.
