West Africa’s Path to Carbon Neutrality: Key Projects and Initiatives

West Africa is progressing towards carbon neutrality, driven by a range of renewable energy projects, climate initiatives and carbon credit systems. As such, countries in the MSGBC and broader West African region are integrating sustainable energy solutions to reduce emissions while fostering economic growth.

Mauritania: Renewable Energy Expansion

Mauritania is advancing its 2030 Nationally Determined Contributions and 2050 net-zero goals through ambitious renewable energy ventures. Key projects include the $40 billion AMAN green hydrogen project and the 10 GW Nour initiative, both poised to transform the country’s energy mix. Additionally, solar and wind projects like the 50 MW Toujounine Solar Plant, the Néma Solar Park and the 102.4 MW Boulenouar Wind Farm further underline Mauritania’s push toward a 50% renewable electricity share by 2030. These initiatives are expected to not only reduce emissions but also boost GDP and create jobs.

Senegal: Green Economy Initiatives

Senegal is similarly committed to reducing its environmental footprint. The country recently launched a National Fund to Promote the Green Economy, targeting sustainable investments across diverse sectors including agriculture and energy. Senegal’s renewable energy sector is spearheaded by the 158 MW Taïba Ndiaye Wind Farm, which plays a key role in achieving the country’s renewable energy targets. With the upcoming national fund, Senegal aims to enhance biodiversity and establish modern waste treatment infrastructure to mitigate its carbon emissions.

The Gambia: Carbon Market and Climate Vision

The Gambia is navigating a balanced approach towards advancing hydrocarbon exploration and renewable energy expansion. The country’s 2050 Climate Vision outlines a comprehensive plan to achieve carbon neutrality through renewable energy projects and carbon market participation. In 2023, The Gambia inaugurated its first large-scale solar plant in Jambur (23 MW with 8 MW storage), marking a milestone in its shift towards a 50% renewable energy mix by 2030. Additionally, the country has a 50 MW solar park tender in the pipeline along with plants to explore green hydrogen production in collaboration with green hydrogen developer H2 Gambia Limited.

Guinea-Bissau: Ecosystem Restoration

Guinea-Bissau is focusing on ecosystem restoration as a key part of its carbon neutrality strategy. The country is set to advance its energy sector with the support of a $35 million grant from financial institution the World Bank under the Solar Energy Scale-up and Access project. This initiative will develop 30 MW of solar power plants with battery storage systems and improve the country’s transmission grid infrastructure, with completion targeted by June 2030. Additional funding from the Green Climate Fund and technical support from the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program will further enhance the country’s energy capabilities and build capacity in the Ministry of Electricity and Water.

Guinea-Conakry: Advancing Hydropower and Solar for Carbon Reduction

Guinea-Conakry is leveraging the carbon credits market to support renewable energy projects. The country is focusing on hydropower – with notable projects including the Souapiti (450 MW), Amaria (300 MW), Koukoutamba (294 MW), Kaleta (240 MW) and Fomi (90 MW) dams –, which accounts for a large portion of its electricity supply. Additionally, the country is investing in solar energy projects to improve rural electrification. The country has initiated discussions with private partners to develop 500 MW of solar energy, with a medium-term goal of adding at least 1 GW of mixed energy capacity to the national grid. Meanwhile, the creation of an Energy Fund aims to channel investments into renewable energy development, supporting the country’s emission reduction goals.