Savannah Energy inks 200-MW solar development deal in Niger

British independent energy company Savannah Energy Plc (LON:SAVE) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the government of Niger to develop up to 200 MW of solar projects in the Western African country.

The pact concerns two photovoltaic (PV) proposals in southern Niger, near the border with Nigeria and within 20 km (12.4 miles) of the cities of Maradi and Zinder. Each plant will have a size of between 50 MW and 100 MW, for a total of up to 200 MW.

Savannah Energy expects to complete the feasibility studies in the next 12 months and potentially secure all needed permits in 2024. First power could be injected into the grid begin between 2025 and 2026.

The projects will be realised by Savannah Energy Niger Solar Ltd, a local unit of the British group, which will use internal resources and debt to bankroll the schemes. Once up and running, the two PV farms will increase the grid-connected power generation in the landlocked country by 20%, offsetting up to 260,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions annually.

Last year, Savannah Energy sealed a deal with the government of Niger to develop a 250-MW wind project, which is due to enter construction next year.

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!