Somalia Unveils 3.5 Megawatt Solar Plant Funded by ADFD

In a significant stride towards bolstering Somalia’s energy infrastructure, a newly inaugurated solar project, financed by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), stands as a beacon of sustainable energy in the country. With a robust production capacity of 3.5 megawatts, this initiative specifically targets addressing the electricity requirements of Bosaso, the bustling commercial hub within the state of Puntland.

More than merely catering to energy needs, this solar plant is poised to tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change while concurrently slashing electricity production costs. By substantially increasing the utilization of renewable energy sources, it aims to pave the way for a greener and more economically viable future for the nation. Notably, the project is anticipated to generate employment opportunities and catalyze economic growth within the region.

The ceremonial inauguration witnessed the presence of His Excellency Ahmed Juma Al Rumaithi, Ambassador of the UAE to Somalia, alongside key officials from the Puntland government, underscoring the collaborative efforts invested in this transformative endeavor.

H.E. Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, reiterated the UAE’s steadfast commitment to global renewable energy initiatives. He emphasized, “The launch of the solar energy station in Somalia aligns with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to promote renewable energy globally, addressing climate change challenges and preserving the environment.”

Highlighting the profound impact envisaged, Al Suwaidi stressed the project’s pivotal role in delivering reliable and affordable clean energy to the residents of Puntland and adjoining areas, directly addressing the energy scarcity prevalent in numerous villages and rural pockets across Somalia. Additionally, the solar plant is poised to significantly curtail carbon emissions within the country.

Echoing these sentiments, H.E. Ahmed Juma Al Rumaithi emphasized the paramount importance of bilateral relations between the UAE and Somalia. He reaffirmed the UAE’s dedication to steering sustainable development initiatives in Somalia, aiming to enhance livelihoods and stimulate economic activities within communities. Al Rumaithi noted that the solar energy station would play a pivotal role in reducing overall energy production costs, marking a significant stride towards sustainable development.

Anticipated to assuage the escalating demand for electricity and bolster economic growth in Bosaso, the solar plant exemplifies the UAE’s unwavering commitment to advancing environmental sustainability and fostering economic prosperity within Somalia.

The solar plant project in the Puntland region encompasses a comprehensive setup involving the supply, installation, and maintenance of cutting-edge conversion and control units. This ADFD-funded initiative seamlessly aligns with the Fund’s overarching objective of bolstering strategic sectors such as agriculture, industry, transport, and renewable energy, thereby propelling Somalia’s socio-economic advancement.