Mali
Overview
Mali’s electricity production is dominated by hydraulic (55 per cent) and diesel (45 per cent) sources. Although Mali is endowed with good solar and hydro potential, it presently accounts for only 310MW of installed capacity to serve a population of around 18 million people. The country imports 50MW from Cote d’Ivoire and has approximately 90MW off-grid production. Mali’s state-owned electric utility is poorly managed and highly subsidised by the government and regional multinational banks. The electricity demand is growing yearly severing the shortage of supply.
Generation
The total annual electricity production is about 500 – 600 gigawatt-hours. The country has a national grid that is owned and run by Energie du Mali (EDM) which supplies 35 towns. Hydropower and thermal power stations are the main energy generation sources at the national level. Hydropower accounts for 51 per cent of the installed energy capacity; however, rainfall and hydrological challenges have hurt electricity generation. Despite the presence of several hybrid systems like solar and diesel, renewables (excluding hydropower) contribute very little to electricity generation.
Transmission and Distribution
The national grid consists of a 150kV line that links Bamako to Fana and Segou in the east from the Selingue hydropower plant; a 63kV line that connects Seguo and Niono, and a 225kV line operated by the Energy Management Company of Mananti.
Renewable Energy
Mali has sturdy renewable energy penetration. Solar irradiation is well distributed over the territory and a 5 – 7kWh/m2/day is relatively high. Projects for building solar thermal plants are in consideration.
Electricity Tariff
The electricity tariff in Mali is 0.239 USD per kWh for households and 0.810 USD per kWh for businesses.
Industry Prospects
The Government of Mali is keenly looking for partnerships to develop an estimated 800MW of hydroelectric power yet to be harnessed, abundant solar energy, and over 300MW of biomass. The government also hopes to increase the production capacity of EDM, improve rural electricity, and manage the entire production chain.