- Axian Energy, Voltalia, and Entech have announced the signing of an EPC contract for Senegal’s NEA Kolda project.
- This photovoltaic power plant project, which aims to address the energy emergency in Africa with sustainable solutions adapted to local needs, is expected to be commissioned in 2026.
Axian Energy, Voltalia, and Entech have announced the signing of an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contract for Senegal’s NEA Kolda project. It is the largest photovoltaic power plant with battery energy storage systems (BESS) in West Africa.
The signing of the contract between leading players Axian Energy, Voltalia, and Entech, which establishes a strategic partnership, is a prerequisite for starting work, scheduled for May 2025, on a 60MWp photovoltaic power plant coupled with a 90MWh storage system.
Voltalia, an international company specialising in renewable energies, will provide all the photovoltaic infrastructure required for the project. Its technology should ensure optimal integration and increased reliability of the plant on the Senelec national grid.
Entech, an expert in energy conversion and storage systems, will deploy an innovative 80 MWh battery solution designed to strengthen the resilience of the national electricity grid.
This storage infrastructure is expected to supply the grid with electricity for three consecutive hours, during peak hours and in the evening, while helping to stabilise the frequencies and voltages of the Senegalese national grid.
Axian Energy, a pan-African developer of renewable energy projects, will manage operations and coordinate the various phases of construction and commissioning, ensuring compliance with deadlines and EPC construction quality standards.
Benjamin Memmi, CEO of Axian Energy, said, “The signing of this EPC contract marks a decisive step towards the success of the NEA Kolda project, which will enable construction work to begin in May 2025.”
This photovoltaic power plant project, which aims to address the energy emergency in Africa with sustainable solutions adapted to local needs, is expected to be commissioned in 2026, he announced.
In addition to the Senegalese authorities and SENELEC, “we also express our gratitude to the lenders EAAIF, FMO, and DEG, who are providing their support in financing this project, which will have a significant impact on the energy transition in Africa,” he added.
The project aims to “support Senegal’s ambitions in terms of sustainable energy and access to electricity, a major development challenge,” through storage solutions that optimise the share of carbon-free electricity in the energy mix, said Christopher Franquet, CEO and Founder of Entech.