#Headlines

Nawec assures 50 MW solar power will address energy security

Apr 22, 2025, 11:39 AM | Article By: Sulayman Waan

Gallo Saidy, the managing director of NAWEC has said the 50 MW Regional Solar Power Park is a critical component in expanding Gambia’s renewable energy capacity.

“The 50 MW Regional Solar Power Park is a critical component in expanding our renewable energy capacity and delivering reliable, affordable power to all communities.” he said at the Nawec Pre-Bid Conference at the International Conference Centre in Bijilo.

The project’s development objective is to support the government of The Gambia (GoTG) in piloting the implementation of a sustainable solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) competitive bidding process to attract investments from the private sector with a Private Public Partnership (PPP). In this regard,

The project aims to improve the diversification and resilience of the Gambian electricity sector by strengthening the institutional framework, leverage additional private capital, address concerns of energy security and diversifying the energy sources.

However, the Nawec MD is optimistic that by November this year, the evaluation process will be concluded, and the selected bidder will be able to commence implementation.

Moving forward, he said delivering this project on schedule is essential to meeting national electrification goals and strengthening the resilience of the country’s energy sector.

“Let us work together to ensure transparency, competitiveness, and value for money as we take this important step towards a greener future,” he said.

This initiative, he added, represents a major milestone in Gambia's pursuit of cleaner, more sustainable, and resilient energy solutions.

“With the generous support of our partners and the strong commitment of the Government of The Gambia, we are confident this project will significantly contribute to our national development goals and strengthen our energy security,” The Nawec boss noted.

Saidy said this project is not only timely but also central to The Gambia’s energy agenda, particularly as the country works towards achieving universal access to electricity to all.