- Senegal launched a $13 million solar project with IRENA and ADFD to electrify remote regions and reach over 30,000 people.
- The initiative supports Senegal’s goal of universal electricity access by 2029 through mini solar plant installations and upgrades.
Senegal has launched a new solar electrification project to bring clean and reliable energy to over 30,000 people in remote communities. The initiative is part of the country’s push to achieve universal electricity access by 2029.
Jean Michel Sène, Director-General of the Senegalese Rural Electrification Agency (ASER), officially launched the ASER–IRENA project in early July in Dakar. The $13 million programme, funded at 8 billion CFA francs, is a partnership between ASER, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD).
Meanwhile, the project will install and rehabilitate mini solar power plants across Matam, Saint-Louis, Louga, Kaffrine and Tambacounda, regions where electricity access remains low. It aims to provide decentralised and sustainable energy to underserved populations.
“This launch marks a decisive step towards the goal of universal access to electricity by 2029,” said Sène during the announcement.
In addition, Senegal has made substantial progress in electrification, with 97.3% of urban residents now connected to the grid. However, only about 54.6% of rural dwellers have access to power.
Furthermore, the solar initiative aligns with Senegal’s broader rural electrification strategy, which relies on international partnerships to accelerate clean energy rollout. ADFD has supported similar IRENA-backed projects across Africa, helping to unlock concessional finance for renewables.
Separately, Sarah Malm, Executive Director of GOGLA, said the off-grid solar sector continues to drive energy access across Africa. GOGLA supports over 200 companies, offers market data, and works with governments to develop enabling policies.
Once completed, the new solar systems are expected to improve the livelihoods of target communities by boosting access to education, healthcare, and income-generating opportunities.