Description
Project Name: Ambatolampy
Project Owner: New Energy Africa Ambatolampy
Standard: Verra VCS
Project ID: 2307
Nestled in the sunlit highlands of Madagascar, 73 km south of Antananarivo (capital city), the Ambatolampy Solar Power Plant stands as a trailblazer in the nation’s renewable energy revolution. Launched in October 2018 as Madagascar’s first utility-scale solar facility, this 40 MWp powerhouse now delivers clean, reliable electricity to an equivalent of 100,000 households transforming lives across Antsirabe, Antananarivo, and beyond.
Its 2022 extension doubled capacity from 20 MWp to 40 MWp, adding 37,050 panels and a cutting-edge 5 MW/5 MWh battery storage system to ensure grid stability during peak demand.
Ambatolampy is a lifeline for Madagascar, where only 25% of the population has electricity access and 80% of power comes from imported fossil fuels. Aligned with the nation’s bold target of 80% renewables by 2030, it reduces reliance on volatile oil markets while powering industries, schools, and hospitals with stable energy. The project created 100 jobs during construction, employs 15 permanent technicians, and supports local communities through schools, water pumps, and “Grass Day” initiatives, where farmers harvest plant grounds for cattle feed. Over 200 students from local schools have toured the facility, sparking enthusiasm for clean energy careers.
NEA Ambatolampy (formely known as GreenYellow) is a major player, an expert in photovoltaics. Capable of leading a project from A to Z. They design the right facility to meet the needs of the population. They handle financing, construction, and operation over time.
Impact
In the past five years, demand for electricity in Madagascar has grown at an annual average rate of approximately 7%.
The project is expected to help the country meet its increasing demand for power reliably and in a cost-effective and environment-friendly manner.
The plant was built through advanced technology transfer from industrialized countries.
The project was the first to introduce sizable solar PV technology, and associated skills in Madagascar.
NEA Ambatolampy used the local workforce to build the plant.
The project hired more than 80 people for the construction phase and relies on 10 permanent technicians to ensure operation and maintenance.
Through this project and their action, NEA Ambatolampy is helping the region.
The project is expected to include benefits to trade and tourism, as well as the agricultural and industrial sectors due to reliable electricity supply.
