Burkina Faso, AfDB Advance 18MW Solar

Key Figures & Findings: The Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA), managed by the African Development Bank (AfDB), has committed €6 million to develop the 18 MW Dédougou Solar Power Plant in western Burkina Faso. Announced during a signing ceremony in Paris on July 18, the funding package supports AfDB’s Desert-to-Power initiative, which seeks to transform the Sahel into a major solar energy hub. The project developer, Qair Africa—an independent power producer active across West Africa—has previously completed a 24 MW solar facility in Zano in 2023 and continues to expand its renewable portfolio in the region.

Statistics & Insights: The package includes a €2.5 million senior concessional loan and a €3.5 million reimbursable grant, complemented by co-financing from Dutch development bank FMO. The plant will operate under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement with Burkina Faso’s national utility, SONABEL.

Future Implications: Once operational by 2026, the plant could cut energy imports, lower tariffs, and boost electricity access for underserved communities, with direct socio-economic benefits through job creation. It is also expected to support AfDB’s target of connecting 250 million people across the Sahel by 2030.

Source: Africa Sustainability Matters