AfDB, Qair Partner on 18-MW Solar Project in Burkina Faso

• SEFA and Qair join forces to power Burkina Faso with an 18-MW solar project, boosting clean energy access and local job creation.

The African Development Bank's Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) has signed a financing agreement with French renewable energy company Qair to support an 18-MW solar project in Burkina Faso. SEFA will provide EUR 6 million (USD 6.9 million) in concessional loans for the construction of the solar plant, aimed at enhancing access to clean energy and strengthening the country's power grid.

Qair, an independent power producer active in Africa, Europe, and Latin America, is expanding its presence in Africa as part of its strategy to support energy transition in emerging markets. The SEFA funding will reduce investment risk, attract private capital, and contribute to local job creation, energy security, and reduced fossil fuel reliance.

How will SEFA's funding impact Burkina Faso's energy transition and local economy?

• Increased Energy Access: The funding will help increase access to clean and reliable energy for households and businesses in Burkina Faso, improving quality of life and economic productivity.
• Job Creation: The construction and operation of the solar plant will create jobs, both directly in the energy sector and indirectly in related industries, boosting local employment.
• Attracting Investment: By reducing investment risk, SEFA's funding will attract additional private capital, encouraging further development of renewable energy projects in the region.
• Energy Security: The project will enhance energy security by diversifying the energy mix and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, making the energy supply more stable and resilient.
• Economic Growth: Improved energy infrastructure can stimulate economic growth by enabling new business opportunities and supporting existing industries with more reliable power.
• Environmental Benefits: The transition to solar energy will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pollution, contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.
• Capacity Building: The project will provide opportunities for local workforce training and skill development in the renewable energy sector, building local expertise and capacity.
• Infrastructure Development: The solar plant will strengthen the national power grid, improving overall infrastructure and supporting future energy projects.