The government of Somalia has launched a tender for a hybrid solar and battery storage project in Berbera, a key northeastern port city.
Ministry of Energy and Minerals made the launched and said the project will feature a 12 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) system paired with a 36 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS). The selected contractor will oversee the design, procurement, installation, testing, and commissioning of the facility. Additionally, the scope includes constructing 13.5 km of 33 kV transmission lines to integrate the project into the grid.
The initiative is part of the Somali Electricity Sector Recovery Project, which is funded by the World Bank. The construction timeline is set at 15 months. A pre-bid meeting is scheduled for April 5, 2025, while interested parties must submit applications by May 5, 2025.
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Energy capacity
This tender follows several recent renewable energy projects in Somalia. In February, a 55 MW solar and 160 MWh BESS project was launched in Mogadishu, with an application deadline of April 14. Another tender for a 10 MW solar and 20 MWh battery storage system was active between January and February.
Somalia’s solar energy capacity has been steadily increasing. By the end of 2023, the country had installed 51 MW of solar power, up from 47 MW in 2022, according to data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). These developments indicate Somalia’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy infrastructure to enhance energy security and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.