Construction works on the Walo energy storage project in Senegal has commenced. Africa REN launched the project with a mission to frequency regulation for grid stability.
The Walo energy storage project located in Bokhol, features innovative lithium battery energy storage unit. The project aligns with Africa REN’s commitment to positively contributing to local communities. It includes a social impact program featuring the construction of small solar power plants for local pumping stations and the extension of the drinking water network to serve five surrounding villages.
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Energy stability
Eiffage Energie Systèmes RMT will develop the project over a 12-month period. During this phase, the project will create 217 local jobs, with 30 jobs to be maintained during its operational phase. The estimated investment for the infrastructure is US $43M which will be provided by the Dutch development bank FMO and the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF), a company of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG).
Upon completion the Walo Storage is projected to address Senegal’s grid constraints, providing essential stability to the local grid and reducing power outages. It supports Senegal’s goal of achieving universal energy access by 2030, injecting 16 MW of solar energy and reducing CO2 emissions by 26,600 tons annually.
“With the launch of the construction of Walo Storage, we reaffirm our position as a leader in the sustainable energy revolution in sub-Saharan Africa. This innovative project paves the way for resilient energy infrastructure and significantly reduces CO2 emissions from Senegal’s power grid. At Africa REN, we are proud to be part of the African energy revolution,” said Gilles Parmentier, President of Africa REN, stated.
Since 2015, Africa REN has solidified its position as a leader in sustainable infrastructure in sub-Saharan Africa, aiming to develop 500 million euros in assets by 2030 across renewable energy, public lighting, and potable water production sectors. In partnership with Senelec, Senegal’s national electricity company, Africa REN is transforming the country’s energy landscape.
