Ivory Coast is set to develop a 25MW biomass power plant at Boundiali in the north of the country. The project follows a partnership between United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and Ecostar Energy Ivory Coast, a subsidiary of the American company Ecostar Energy.
The two inked a grant agreement that will support the diversification of electricity generation in Côte d’Ivoire using a locally abundant renewable resource. The power plant will be designed to use cotton stalks as a locally abundant renewable resource. Cotton, being a widely grown crop in the north of Ivory Coast, provides an ample source of biomass for electricity production.
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Benefits
The decision to incinerate cotton stalks to generate electricity aligns with the goal of utilizing agricultural waste for energy purposes. The plant’s 25 MW capacity will make a meaningful contribution to the region’s power supply. Additionally, the involvement of Delphos International in providing technical assistance showcases collaboration between American companies in advancing sustainable energy solutions abroad.
The fact that Ivory Coast is the third-largest cotton producer in Africa highlights the significance of leveraging locally available resources for power generation. Furthermore, the energy recovery from agricultural waste contributes to diversifying the country’s electricity mix, reducing dependence on a single energy source. With approximately 40% of the electricity mix now coming from gas, this project helps enhance energy security and sustainability. Overall, this initiative not only addresses energy needs but also promotes economic opportunities for the local community by utilizing a resource that has been a key part of their livelihoods for decades.
