Abu Dhabi-funded solar project to light up lives of 50,000 Somaliland residents

Project will boost economy, cut electricity costs by replacing diesel with solar power

The power plant will supply energy at an affordable price as it replaces diesel with solar energy. Courtesy: ADFD

A vital energy project in Somaliland financed by an Abu Dhabi fund will bring light to more than 50,000 people.

The $7.8 million solar project in the port city of Berbera has the support of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development.

The seven-megawatt Berbera hybrid mini-grid project is connected to the city's electricity grid and efficient power supply will directly affect the lives of residents.

The project in the self-declared independent East African country will reduce electricity bills by replacing costly diesel with green energy.

The plant began operating in October and is being described as a game-changer for the people of Berbera.

The project will significantly bring down energy tariffs and minimise the country’s carbon footprint in the long term.

The operation took seven months to complete despite a number of obstacles in construction as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

The project was completed under the guidance of Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director general of ADFD.

“Our renewable-energy project in Berbera will play a strategic role in our larger effort to sustainably drive up the economy and raise the standard of living in the area,” he said.

“The demand for energy is growing continuously in Berbera as the population swells.

“This project will lead to heightened economic activity, financial savings, reduction of carbon emissions and will improve the air quality.”

Stable electric supply across the city will boost commercial development and lead to port expansion.