Ivory Coast Greenlights Major Solar Project in Hambol

• Côte d’Ivoire's $60M solar project by JC Mont-Fort powers 140,000 homes, creating jobs and cutting emissions, aligning with national energy goals for a sustainable future.

Côte d’Ivoire has approved a $60 million solar project near Katiola in the Hambol region, developed by Swiss company JC Mont-Fort. The 50-megawatt photovoltaic plant, the largest single-site solar project in the country, aims to meet rising demand for low-carbon electricity. The project, under a 25-year build-own-operate-transfer model, will generate 72.9 GWh annually, powering nearly 140,000 homes. Construction will create 160 jobs, with 30 permanent positions, and reduce carbon emissions by 4,750 tonnes annually.

The project aligns with Côte d’Ivoire’s Production–Transport Master Plan 2022-2040, which targets doubling installed capacity to 5.2 GW by 2030 and increasing solar energy's share to at least 8%. JC Mont-Fort, known for alpine solar projects, sees Katiola as a model for climate-smart growth. The company is also developing a 200 MW portfolio across Europe and Africa, aiming to become an independent power producer. Energy Minister Mamadou Sangafowa-Coulibaly emphasized the importance of adhering to the construction timeline to benefit consumers by 2026.

How will Côte d’Ivoire's largest solar project impact its energy goals and economy?

• Supports Côte d’Ivoire's goal to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
  
• Contributes to the national target of increasing renewable energy capacity, specifically solar, to at least 8% by 2030.
  
• Enhances energy security by providing a stable and sustainable power source, reducing vulnerability to global energy price fluctuations.
  
• Promotes economic growth by creating jobs during construction and operation, boosting local employment and skills development.
  
• Attracts foreign investment and strengthens international partnerships in the renewable energy sector.
  
• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to national and global climate change mitigation efforts.
  
• Sets a precedent for future renewable energy projects, encouraging further development and investment in the sector.
  
• Improves access to electricity for rural and underserved communities, enhancing quality of life and economic opportunities.
• Aligns with Côte d’Ivoire’s long-term energy strategy, supporting sustainable development and environmental stewardship.