5 Projects Powering Senegal’s Energy Transition

Senegal is rapidly advancing its energy transition through large-scale infrastructure, regional gas integration and ambitious electrification goals. With an electricity access rate of 84% and a target of universal access by this year, the country is investing in renewable energy, modern gas infrastructure and strategic partnerships under the Just Energy Transition Partnership. Key initiatives include expanding generation capacity by 70%, raising renewables to 40% of the energy mix and electrifying rural communities, schools, health clinics and supporting urban mobility.

As Senegal advances its clean energy ambitions, the upcoming MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power conference – taking place in Dakar from December 9-10 – will provide a critical platform to accelerate the region’s just energy transition. Uniting regional leaders, investors and policymakers, this year’s event highlights Senegal’s commitment to expanding clean energy access and fostering sustainable development.

Karpowership LNG-to-Power Project

In July 2025, Senegal’s first LNG-to-power project began generating electricity offshore Dakar through a partnership between the country’s state-owned Senelec and Turkey’s Karpowership. The project integrates the LNGT Africa floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) with the 335 MW KPS 10 powership. The FSRU supports Senegal’s broader energy expansion following first production at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) conventional gas development, which was achieved in December last year.

NEA Kolda Solar and Storage Project

Senegal is set to host West Africa’s largest solar-plus-storage facility with the NEA Kolda project, developed by pan-African renewable energy developer Axian Energy, solar energy company Voltalia and digital consultancy firm Entech. The 60 MWp PV plant will be paired with a 70 MWh battery storage system, enabling three hours of grid support during peak demand. The project aims to enhance grid reliability, expand clean energy access and support Senegal’s sustainable energy transition. Construction on the project began in May 2025, with commissioning expected in 2026.

National Gas Pipeline Development

Spanning 400km, Senegal’s $1.07 billion national gas pipeline project will connect offshore gas fields to power plants and industrial zones, replacing heavy fuels with natural gas. The project is advancing in phases, with procurement and contract negotiations nearly complete for the northern segment. Upon completion, the project is expected to reduce CO² emissions by approximately 30 million tons by 2050 and lower energy costs, supporting Senegal’s transition to gas-powered generation.

Dakar Sustainable Urban Mobility Project

Last June, international finance institution the World Bank approved $100 million in financing for the Dakar Sustainable Urban Mobility Project, aimed at modernizing transport across the Dakar metropolitan area. The project integrates bus rapid transit (BRT), regional express rail and restructured bus networks, while professionalizing informal transport sectors. The project includes climate-resilient infrastructure, low-emission buses and improved traffic management to reduce congestion and emissions. Supporting 3.8 million residents, the initiative lays the groundwork for future BRT expansion and enhanced connectivity with regional hubs, aligning with Senegal’s Vision 2050 and green growth strategy.

Greater Tortue Ahmeyim Gas Project

Senegal and Mauritania achieved first gas at the cross-border GTA conventional gas project last December, marking a milestone in West Africa’s energy landscape. Developed by energy major bp, deepwater exploration company Kosmos Energy, Senegal’s state-owned Petrosen and Mauritania’s state-owned SMH, Phase 1 of the project will produce 2.5 million tons per annum of LNG from a deepwater subsea system tied to a floating production storage and offloading and floating LNG vessel located 120 km offshore. Estimated to hold over 15 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, the project is set to boost regional gas exports and support domestic supply in future phases, reinforcing Senegal’s emergence as a key global gas player.

Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region’s oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.msgbcoilgasandpower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@ecp.fgxdev.co.za.