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Mbakaou Carrière Small Hydro Power Plant

Description


Project Name: Mbakaou

Project Owner: IED Invest

Standard: Verra VCS

Project ID: 3220

In Cameroon, where 80% of rural residents lack access to electricity, the Mbakaou Mini-Hydropower Plant is a beacon of hope and progress. This groundbreaking project delivers clean, renewable energy to 3,000 households and numerous small and medium enterprises across 8 villages in the Tibati region. By replacing costly, polluting diesel-powered thermal stations, Mbakaou is slashing state fuel expenses and paving the way for a sustainable, electrified future.

By supplying green electricity to homes, businesses, and community services, the project enhances access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Local SMEs thrive with reliable power, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation in rural areas.

The Mbakaou plant is set to double its capacity to 2.8 MW in the next years, extending clean energy to even more households and businesses. This ambitious expansion will amplify the project’s reach, bringing sustainable electricity to additional communities and reinforcing Cameroon’s commitment to renewable energy. Mbakaou is not just meeting today’s needs—it’s powering tomorrow’s possibilities.

Developed by IED INVEST, a pioneering company established in 2011, Mbakaou showcases the power of small-scale, decentralized renewable energy solutions. Backed by the expertise of IED, an independent consulting and engineering firm with over 420 sustainable energy projects since 1988, IED INVEST designs, finances, and operates innovative projects tailored to developing countries. Mbakaou is a shining example of their mission to drive sustainable progress through clean energy.

Impact


The plant will put an end to the use of 2 thermal power stations.

The project will save Eneo (national energy provider) approximately $513,000 per year on the fuel costs required to operate the two thermal power plants.

The plant was built through advanced technology transfer from industrialized countries.

Mini-hydro plant has the advantage of providing clean energy in the
remote locality and are easy to operate.

IED Invest used the local workforce to build the plant.

The project has created more than 40 direct jobs in the region during the construction phase and 12 jobs for operation and maintenance.

The region has the advantage of having one of the largest lake in the country.

The project is taking full advantage of this potential by using it instead of going for a more complex source of energy production.

CSR Action


Etude

In association with the university of Ngaoundere, the plant will open its door the students in order to raise awareness about climate change and the technology used to produce green electricity.

Heath care

Thanks to carbon finance, the project developer will help the communal hospital by modernizing the kitchen to welcome the families of patients. They will also purchase health equipment.

Giving

Local commercial activity will also be supported with the purchase of community freezers for fish preservation and a honey filter machine to support bee keeping activities.

Pictures


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