Description
Project Name: Boundiali
Project owner: CI-Energies
Standard: Gold Standard
Project ID: 12486
The Boundiali Solar Power Plant, located in the northern part of Côte d’Ivoire, stands as the country’s first large-scale solar facility connected to the national grid. Inaugurated in April 2024, this groundbreaking project marks a significant step toward diversifying Côte d’Ivoire’s energy mix and advancing its commitment to sustainable development.
The Boundiali Solar Power Plant boasts a capacity of 37.5 MW (for the first phase of the project) and will reach 83 MW when the second phase is launched.
The plant is equipped with 68,208 solar panels, supported by transformers and an advanced 10 MW battery storage system. This energy storage system ensures capacity firming and smooth integration into the grid by mitigating the intermittency of solar power.
The Boundiali Solar Power Plant plays a pivotal role in Côte d’Ivoire’s ambition to become West Africa’s energy hub. Historically reliant on thermal power (around 70% from gas-fired plants) and hydroelectricity (over 30%), the country is now diversifying its energy portfolio. Under its National Renewable Energy Action Plan, launched in 2018, Côte d’Ivoire aims to achieve a 42% renewable energy share in its electricity mix by 2030.
Beyond its technical and strategic significance, the plant has created over 300 direct and indirect jobs during its construction phase, with a focus on employing local workers from the Boundiali region.
The success of the Boundiali Solar Power Plant paves the way for similar projects across Côte d’Ivoire, and in the region. As the country balances its renewable energy, Boundiali exemplifies a scalable model for integrating solar power into the national grid, driving both energy security and sustainability.
Impact
Côte d’Ivoire’s grid relies heavily on thermal power and hydroelectricity.
The project introduces clean solar energy, diversifying the energy mix and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Energy access in rural northern Côte d’Ivoire is limited and inconsistent.
The project provides reliable electricity to approximately 35,000 households, enhancing energy security and supporting rural development.
CI-Energies used the local workforce to build the plant.
The project hired local people for the construction phase and relies on Ivorian technicians to ensure operation and maintenance.
Côte d’Ivoire aims to achieve a 42% renewable energy share in its electricity mix by 2030.
The project is helping the country to reach this target.
