Description
Project Name: Soubré
Project owner: CI-Energies
Standard: Verra VCS
Project ID: 1522
Operating since 2017, the hydropower plant of Soubré is a game changer in Ivory Coast in order to reach a low carbon mix in the country. Located on the Sassandra river at about 5km from the town of Soubré, this project is producing 1,170 GWh of electricity on average per year. This hydropower plant is part of the Ivorian’s strategy to promote green energy into their mix.
The government aims to reduce the thermal share by 50% and reduce the gas bill of households while highlighting the strong commitment of the country to fight climate change. To date, electricity in Ivory Coast is mainly generated from fossil fuels (natural gas and fuel oil) which leads to considerable greenhouse gas emissions. The project activity therefore substitutes fossil-fuel intensive grid-electricity and cuts down corresponding GHG emissions.
CI-Energies is the national grid company from Ivory Coast. Their mission is that 100% of Ivorians have access to electricity (94% to date). CI-Energies emphasize on renewable energy production with 4 projects being developped until 2022.
Impact
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.
CSR Action
Creation of a 200 ha biodiversity conservation area (largest area in Africa). This land will also run a program to raise awareness about biodiversity protection.
Protection of the National Par of Taï by offering 2 trucks, 1 motorcycle and awareness panel.
Construction in the nearby villages of 5 schools, 3 medical centers, housing and a sports complex. Installation of village pumps that allows 6,000 persons to have access to clean water.
Creation of a dedicated fishing area for the local community and the Soubré fish market that will allows them to generate more revenues.
