EDF has entered into a partnership to develop, build, and operate a 120MW hydroelectric dam in Madagascar. This marks a significant step in the country’s energy transition.
The agreement was signed during the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron and was formalized by Béatrice Buffon, EDF Group Executive Director and CEO of EDF Renewables, alongside Amine Hiridjee, co-CEO of AXIAN Group, and Demba Diallo, Africa50 Development Director.
The Volobe dam, to be located in Tamatave in the northeast of Madagascar, is a key infrastructure project for the Malagasy government. Once completed, it will generate 750GWh of electricity annually, which is roughly one-third of Madagascar’s current electricity production. This initiative aims to support the decarbonization of the nation’s electricity grid while improving energy security.
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Funding
The project will be developed under high environmental and social standards and has received backing from the Malagasy government, international donors, and a guarantee from the World Bank. EDF, AXIAN Group, and Africa50 will jointly own the project, with EDF holding a 37.5% stake, matching AXIAN Group’s share. Africa50 will hold a 25% stake in the project company, Compagnie Générale d’Hydroélectricité de Volobe (CGHV).
EDF will oversee the technical aspects of the Volobe dam, leveraging its extensive experience in managing complex hydroelectric projects. The dam is expected to be operational by the end of 2030, providing reliable, competitively priced electricity to around two million people in Madagascar. JIRAMA, the national water and electricity company, will be the primary beneficiary of the electricity supply, which will help meet the growing demand for energy in the country.
Commenting on the agreement, Béatrice Buffon expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I am delighted to see EDF’s teams applying their expertise to develop the Volobe hydroelectric project, which will provide decarbonized, reliable, and affordable electricity. This project highlights EDF’s commitment to supporting the energy transition of its clients, in collaboration with leading industry partners and international donors.”
