Gambia Advances 50MW Solar Park Plans

January 16, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 2 minutes

Key Figures & Findings: The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) of The Gambia is advancing its renewable energy goals with a call for consultancy firms to update the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for the World Bank-funded Regional Solar Park Project (RSPG). The project includes a 50MW solar power plant and an 18MWh battery energy storage system (BESS). While the RAP was approved in 2023, updates are needed to prepare for site handovers to independent power producers selected via competitive bidding. Firms with at least 10 years of experience must submit their interest by January 31, 2025, with eight weeks allocated to update the RAP and six months for implementation.

Statistics & Insights: The Gambia’s solar capacity was a mere 2MW at the end of 2023 but saw a boost with the commissioning of a 23MW solar plant in 2024. The 50MW RSPG project, once operational, will significantly expand renewable energy in the country, offering a reliable, sustainable power source.

Future Implications:  If successfully executed, the RSPG project could transform The Gambia’s energy landscape, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and boosting energy reliability.