The Ayemé Plaine solar power plant, touted as the largest solar energy production unit in Central Africa, marks a significant milestone in Gabon’s transition towards renewable energy, a journey the nation has embarked upon in recent years.
Project Timeline and Delays
Initially slated for completion by the end of July 2023, the 120 MW Ayemé Plaine photovoltaic solar plant, situated 30 km from Libreville, is now expected to be operational by October, according to Solen, a subsidiary of Solen Renewables Dubai, responsible for the construction of this facility.
Construction and Investment
Construction of this monumental solar photovoltaic plant, heralded as Central Africa’s largest by Gabonese officials, commenced in August 2022 with an original delivery date set for July 2023. However, as reported by Le Nouveau Gabon, this timeline was not met.
Financial and Operational Details
Solen, a Dubai-based company, is both constructing and financing this solar plant with an investment of 150 million euros (98.7 billion CFA francs).
Per the agreement with the Gabonese government, Solen will operate and maintain the plant for a duration of 25 years.
Additionally, all electricity generated by this facility will be sold to the Société d’énergie et d’eau du Gabon (SEEG) through a long-term power purchase agreement signed in March 2022.
Technological and Environmental Impact
Spanning 251 hectares, this solar power plant will address two primary objectives: advancing Gabon’s commitment to renewable energy and boosting the energy supply for Libreville and its surrounding areas.
Solen further elaborates that the photovoltaic plant will employ solar tracker technology, which enhances the efficiency of solar panels by aligning them with the sun’s trajectory throughout the day.
Conclusion
The Ayemé Plaine solar plant represents a pivotal advancement in Gabon’s renewable energy landscape.
With its substantial capacity and strategic importance, this project not only underscores Gabon’s dedication to sustainable energy solutions but also promises to significantly augment the region’s power supply, thereby supporting both environmental and economic growth.