IFC PPP team to support Afghanistan in 40-MW solar tender plan

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) will help the government of Afghanistan design and tender a 40-MW solar project, to serve as a model for more such schemes in the future.

The World Bank Group member said on Wednesday its public–private partnership (PPP) advisory experts will support the government's efforts to bring clean, locally produced power to Afghans. IFC’s involvement will be funded by the UK Department of International Development through DevCo, a multi-donor facility managed by the IFC, and by the Global Infrastructure Facility.

Afghanistan has a goal to build 2 GW of solar power capacity. Currently, up to 80% of energy in the country is being imported and there are frequent blackouts. The IFC said just about 28% of people in the country are connected to the grid.

“IFC will bring its global experience in PPPs to help identify, prioritize, structure, and tender the project that supports government priorities in developing the vital renewable energy sector,” said Mouayed Makhlouf, regional director for the Middle East and North Africa. He believes the private sector can do a lot to support the country’s infrastructure development.

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