Soubré Hydropower Project

Project Name: Soubré

Project Owner: CI-Energies

Standard: Verra VCS

Project ID: 1522

Since its commissioning in 2017, the Soubré Hydropower Plant has been a transformative force in Ivory Coast’s quest for a sustainable energy mix. Strategically located on the Sassandra River, just 5 km from the town of Soubré, this state-of-the-art facility generates an impressive 1,170 GWh of clean electricity annually. As a cornerstone of Ivory Coast’s green energy strategy, Soubré is driving the nation toward a low-carbon future, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

In Ivory Coast, where electricity has historically been dominated by fossil fuels like natural gas and fuel oil, greenhouse gas emissions have posed a significant challenge. Soubré is changing the game by substituting fossil fuel-intensive grid electricity with renewable hydropower, significantly cutting emissions. Aligned with the government’s ambitious goal to reduce the thermal share by 50%, the plant also lowers household gas bills, making energy more affordable while reinforcing Ivory Coast’s bold commitment to combating climate change.

Soubré’s impact extends far beyond clean power. By delivering reliable, green electricity, the plant supports households, businesses, and essential services, fostering economic development and improving quality of life in the Soubré region and beyond. From powering schools and hospitals to enabling local entrepreneurship, Soubré is a catalyst for prosperity, helping Ivory Coast move closer to its vision of 100% electricity access (currently at 94%).

Operated by CI-Energies, Ivory Coast’s national electricity company, Soubré exemplifies a dedication to universal electricity access and renewable energy innovation. With a mission to ensure every Ivorian has power, CI-Energies is advancing sustainability through four renewable energy projects developed up to 2022. Soubré stands as a flagship achievement, showcasing the company’s leadership in building a cleaner, more inclusive energy future.

Thanks to the plant, more 120 villages in the Mountains district have now access to electricity.

The local population can now live a modern life using green electricity.

The price of the kilowatt is 20 F CFA Soubre compared to 55 CFA francs from other energy sources.

The project helps the sector to find its financial balance.

CI-Energies used the local workforce to build the plant.

The project hired more than 4,000 people (directly and indirectly) for the construction phase and relies on 50 permanent technicians to ensure operation and maintenance.

Through this project and their action, CI-Energies is helping the region.

The project helps the San Pedro region to have a revival of activity, more people are now working and living in this area.