Cameroon Expands Solar and Battery Capacity

Key Figures & Findings: Cameroon has launched the second phase of its solar and battery expansion in the northern cities of Maroua and Guider, boosting capacity to 64.4 MW of solar power and 38.2 MWh of storage. The project, led by Release, a subsidiary of Norway’s Scatec, in partnership with utility ENEO, is expected to supply reliable electricity to 200,000 homes while cutting diesel use in a region long affected by blackouts. Since 2022, the first phase of these plants has already proven the model’s effectiveness, connecting to the grid just six months after contracts were signed.

Statistics & Insights: The expanded plants will generate an estimated 141.5 GWh of electricity per year. Initial operations have already reduced fuel consumption by 90% between 2021 and 2023 and cut CO₂ emissions by roughly 32,000 tons annually, delivering savings of about 18 billion CFA francs.

Future Implications: If completed on schedule, this expansion could significantly diversify Cameroon’s power mix, where hydro still accounts for over 90% of capacity. The success of modular solar-plus-storage could set a precedent for other African markets seeking quick, scalable energy security solutions.

Source: Ecofin Agency

Quick Take: Cameroon expands solar and storage to 64.4 MW, powering 200,000 homes and cutting fuel use.