- The DREAM Project aligns with Mauritania’s Mission 300 Energy Compact, which targets universal electricity access by 2030.
- Part of the initiative is the construction of Mauritania’s first utility-scale battery energy storage system.
Mauritania has taken a bold step toward becoming a regional leader in clean energy and sustainable mining following the World Bank Group’s approval of the Development of Energy Resources and Mineral Sector Support Project (DREAM).
The initiative will significantly boost the country’s energy storage capacity, green hydrogen potential, and mining sector governance—marking a pivotal shift in West Africa’s energy and economic landscape.
With an eye on long-term climate resilience and energy access, the DREAM Project aligns with Mauritania’s Mission 300 Energy Compact, which targets universal electricity access by 2030.
Part of the initiative is the construction of Mauritania’s first utility-scale battery energy storage system, designed to maximise the country’s vast solar and wind resources for stable and sustainable power supply.
“This is more than a development project—it’s a blueprint for a resilient, low-carbon economy,” said Ibou Diouf, World Bank Country Manager for Mauritania. “DREAM will unlock green hydrogen potential, strengthen mineral governance, and generate long-term employment.”
The project supports the implementation of Mauritania’s pioneering Green Hydrogen Law, one of the first of its kind in Africa. DREAM will help establish a dedicated regulatory agency, draft operational policies, and attract investment through environmental and social safeguards, placing Mauritania at the forefront of green hydrogen development on the continent.
According to Demetrios Papathanasiou, Global Director for Energy & Extractives at the World Bank, “This initiative puts Mauritania on the map as a future hub for green hydrogen, energy storage, and critical minerals—while also delivering jobs and growth for its people.”
DREAM also underscores Mauritania’s commitment to inclusive economic development, with a focus on institutional capacity building, technical education, and increasing women’s participation in energy and extractive industries.
The project reflects the One World Bank Group approach, combining the efforts of the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and development partners, including GIZ, AFD, UNDP, the European Union, ESMAP, PPIAF, and KWPF. Collectively, these partnerships will scale investment, enhance governance, and align technical support with Mauritania’s clean energy transition.
As the global race for climate-smart energy intensifies, Mauritania is positioning itself not only as a beneficiary of green growth but as a driver of Africa’s energy future.