Grid-Connected Solar PV Project in Sakal

Project Name: Sakal

Project Owner: Innovent

Standard: Verra VCS

Project ID: 1971

In the sun-soaked plains of Sakal (Louga region) 110 km northeast of Dakar, the Sakal Solar PV Park stands as a pioneering force in Senegal’s renewable energy revolution. Commissioned in June 2018 as the nation’s first solar PV plant using single-axis trackers (producing 25% more energy than fixed-panel systems). This 20 MWp powerhouse generates 41.8 GWh annually, powering more than 150,000 households with clean, stable electricity. Built by InnoVent, Sakal uses 62,100 solar panels across 40 hectares, and reducing Senegal’s reliance on fossil fuels, which account for 70% of its energy mix.

Constructed in 18 months, the plant created 100 jobs (80% local) and sustains 30 permanent roles, with training in solar maintenance.

InnoVent, a French renewable energy leader brings over 15 years of expertise to Sakal. Beyond energy, the project empowers communities including solar panels for schools, and supports local energy access in Louga. InnoVent’s has also a reforestation progroam of 500 hectares in Senegal, while its Muzukidz program offers music lessons to 200 children in southern Africa, promoting social integration.

Senelec (national electricity company) buys kWh of thermal power plants 40% more expensive than the kWh of photovoltaic plants.

The project helps to reduce the electricity bill of Senegalese households.

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

The project was the first to introduce solar panels on trackers to follow the course of the sun in Senegal.

Innovent used the local workforce to build the plant.

The project hired local people for the construction phase and relies on 30 permanent technicians to ensure operation and maintenance.

Around 70% of Senegal’s energy production comes from fossil fuels.

The project helps to reduce the gap between fossil fuels and renewable energy.