Total Project Cost
Investment Required
Stakeholders
Countries
Project Overview
Description
The implementation strategy of the WAPP assumes the realisation of distinct but mutually complementary infrastructure sub-programmes which, when realised, will result in an integrated efficient electricity system in West Africa. The WAPP Regional Solar Power Park Project in Mali of potential capacity 150 MW features prominently among the Priority Projects. The Project is scalable, multiphase and multisite. Three sites are selected, namely Fana, Bougouni and Sanankoroba around Bamako.
Objectives
Reduce the demand-supply imbalance within the ECOWAS sub-region and augment the renewable energy component in the regional energy mix. Develop and realization of key priority infrastructure that permit the accessibility to economic and sustainable energy resources, to all Member States of ECOWAS. Augment the portion of Renewables (Solar, Wind) in the regional energy mix.
Strategic Importance
Strategic renewable energy project to diversify the regional energy mix and increase clean energy generation capacity.
Technical Specifications
Technology & Design
Utility-scale solar photovoltaic power plants across three sites.
Capacity & Size
150 MW total capacity (across three sites: Fana, Bougouni, and Sanankoroba)
Technical Details
Solar power park with potential capacity of 150 MW across three sites (Fana, Bougouni and Sanankoroba). Expected production is 498 GWh per year.
Development, Implementation & Financial Details
Development Timeline
Feasibility studies to be completed by 2023, with project structuring by 2024.
Latest Implementation Updates
UPDATED2024-05-24: Construction began on the 150 MW Sanankoroba solar plant – https://www.voanews.com/a/mali-russia-start-work-on-major-solar-plant/7026545
2025-07: Current Status: Project Structuring confirmed by ECOWAS;
Milestones Achieved: Mali began construction on the 150 MW Sanankoroba solar plant;
Financing Status: Government & Rosatom partnership;
Next Steps: Complete civil works and grid connection;
Additional Doc: https://pp2.au-pida.org/wp-content/uploads/formidable/4/Sanankoroba_Solar_Project_Details.pdf
Financing Structure
The project is expected to be financed through a combination of public funding, development finance, and potential private sector participation.
Capital Structure
70% debt, 30% equity
Project Timeline
Start Date
January 2023
Expected Completion
December 2028
Development Timeline
Feasibility studies to be completed by 2023, with project structuring by 2024.
Project Status History
Status 2020
Feasibility
Status 2022
Feasibility
Status 2024
Feasibility
Additional Project Details
Preparation Funding Gap
USD 2.50M
Construction Timeline
Construction expected to take 2-3 years after financial close.
Legal & Financial Advisors
To be appointed
Market Analysis
Market Analysis
Growing demand for electricity in Mali and the sub-region, with increasing focus on renewable sources.
Market Demand
Strong demand for power in Mali, with significant supply deficits.
Key Stakeholders
Project Sponsor
Ministry of Energy and Water, Mali; WAPP
Key Parties
West African Power Pool (WAPP), Ministry of Energy and Water (Mali)
Investors
Government of Mali, development finance institutions, potential private investors
Contractors & Operators
To be determined through competitive procurement
Risk Assessment
General Risk Assessment
Security risks in the region, financing challenges, grid integration challenges.
Regulatory Risks
Regulatory framework in place but may require strengthening to support large-scale renewable integration.
Impact Assessment
Environmental Impact
Limited environmental impact expected, with focus on land use management.
Social Impact
Enhanced energy access, potential for local economic development, reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
Investment Opportunities
Private Sector Opportunities
This project is in line with the region's renewed drive to significantly augment the portion of new Renewables (Solar, Wind) in the regional energy mix. Subcontracting with women-owned SMEs or gender-certified businesses could be a possibility.
Next Steps & Agreements
Next Steps
Complete feasibility studies, finalize site selection, secure financing
Offtake Agreements
Power purchase agreements to be established with national utility and potentially WAPP.
Contact Information
Ministry of Energy and Water, Mali; WAPP Secretariat
