Sustainable Energy Initiative: OMP Embarks On $2.6Million Solarization Project In Gabon

By Faridat Salifu

In a strategic move towards sustainable and eco-friendly operations, Owendo Mineral Port (OMP) has initiated a groundbreaking solarization project with the backing of British International Investment (BII).

The investment, totaling $2.6 million, will facilitate the installation of a cutting-edge 1.56 MWp solar panel system alongside a 1 MW battery electricity storage solution within the port’s premises, located just 21 kilometers from Gabon’s capital, Libreville.

As a public-private joint venture between Arise Ports & Logistics, Meridiam, and the Gabonese government, OMP is dedicated to embracing a low-emission economy.

This progressive initiative aligns with the national vision of Gabon to significantly reduce carbon emissions, aiming for annual carbon savings of around 3,000 tonnes of CO2.

The environmental impact of this pioneering endeavor is projected to be substantial, with an estimated reduction of over 1,700 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.

In addition to its ecological benefits, the solarization project also promises optimized operating costs for the port.

Director and Head of Energy Access and Efficiency at BII, Geoffrey Manley, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing BII’s commitment to addressing climate challenges.

Furthermore, BII’s financing is tied to an energy audit, revealing that while substantial progress has been made, further steps are required to fully solarize OMP’s electricity needs.

This landmark collaboration reflects BII’s overarching ambition to achieve a net-zero portfolio by 2050 and to actively support the decarbonization efforts of its portfolio companies.

The resonance of OMP’s move towards a low-CO2 economy with national energy policy objectives further underscores the significance of this initiative.

In line with its sustainable development strategy, OMP is also geared towards electrifying its mechanical equipment and transport vehicles, laying the groundwork for a progressive and environmentally conscious approach to its operations.

This significant and forward-thinking investment from BII represents a pivotal step in OMP’s journey towards energy sustainability and environmental responsibility.