By Faridat Salifu
The Gambiain government has unveiled its inaugural large-scale solar energy production facility in Jambur. This milestone project, funded in part by the European Union (EU) and the World Bank, boasts a formidable capacity of 23 MWp.
Gambia’s demand for electricity has increased by 5.5% in recent years.
Gambiain President, Adama Barrow, who inaugurated the flagship component of the Gambia Electricity Rehabilitation and Modernisation Project (GERMP) on March 25, expressed optimism that the project will boost electricity supply and improve the economic wellbeing of residents in Jabur area.
Barrow emphasized the plant’s pivotal role in diminishing Gambia’s reliance on imported fossil fuels for electricity generation.
Additionally, he underscored the project’s ambition to propel the nation towards achieving 50% of its electricity supply from renewable sources by 2030.
It was reported that the Jabur Solar Park which is being constructed and tested within a year by the Chinese firm Tebian Electric Apparatus (TBEA), includes an 8 MWh electricity storage system alongside its 23 MWp capacity.
It was gathered that, prior to the establishment of the Jambur solar plant, Gambia relied exclusively on fossil fuels, primarily diesel and fuel oil, for electricity generation.
Consequently, the new facility marks a decisive step towards decarbonizing the country’s electricity sector and advancing its transition to clean energy.
When completed, the GERMP aims to provide clean and sustainable energy to 1,000 schools and 100 health facilities in rural areas lacking access to electricity.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is said to be leading the financing efforts with €65 million, while the EU contributes $40 million, and the World Bank provides €36 million through its subsidiary, the International Development Association (IDA).
Observers note that this project underscores Gambia’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, fostering green energy systems, and fulfilling its nationally determined contribution towards combating climate change.