In November, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania secured a significant financial partnership with France to enhance its electrical infrastructure. This agreement, valued at over €39 million (approximately $42.2 million), focuses on developing ten solar power plants equipped with storage systems. The agreement was formalized in the capital, Nouakchott, by the Minister of Economic Affairs and Promotion of Productive Sectors from Mauritania and the French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and Attractiveness.
Support for Renewable Energy Projects in Mauritania
This loan is a critical part of Mauritania’s broader national strategy aimed at achieving universal electrification by 2030. The government plans to connect an additional 3.4 million people, requiring a substantial 66% increase in the current production capacity.
Goals and Current Production Capacity
To support these ambitious targets, Mauritania aims to elevate the share of renewable energy in its electricity mix to 70%, an increase from the current 44.36%. As of 2023, the country’s annual electricity production reached 1.66 TWh, supported by an installed capacity of 615.1 MW.
National Strategy and Electricity Code Reforms
- New electricity code established to encourage competition in electricity sales.
- Focus on boosting rural electrification efforts.
Currently, electricity access demonstrates significant disparities, with 91% coverage in urban areas compared to only 6% in rural regions. To address these challenges, Mauritania’s reforms are aimed at restructuring the energy sector for improved regulation and efficiency.
Potential for Renewable Energy Development
Mauritania is endowed with robust natural resources conducive to renewable energy production. Solar irradiation levels range from 2,000 to 2,300 kWh/m²/year. In addition, coastal regions, particularly around Nouadhibou, are characterized by consistent winds ideal for energy generation.
Challenges and Future Funding
Despite this favorable landscape, Mauritania ranked 29th among African nations in electricity production in 2023, according to the International Energy Agency. To progress towards its energy goals, the government aims to mobilize up to $2.45 billion for the power sector.
- Current French financial support expands ongoing collaborations with international donors.
- Engagement of multilateral institutions and private operators to modernize the grid.
- Focus on enhancing renewable energy supply, especially in rural areas.
Achieving universal electricity access presents ongoing challenges, particularly in addressing unmet energy needs that inhibit industrial and service sector growth in Mauritania.
