Guinea Awards 50 MW Solar Project to Strengthen Clean Energy and Grid Infrastructure

Guinea is moving forward with a major renewable energy project that is expected to strengthen the country’s electricity supply and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. According to reports highlighted by African Energy, the Guinean government has awarded a major contract for the development of a 50 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in the Kindia region near the town of Linsan. The project will be developed by VINCI Energies Guinea, a subsidiary of the Moroccan company Cegelec, under a contract valued at around €192 million.

The solar project forms part of Guinea’s long-term strategy to modernize its electricity infrastructure and improve energy reliability across the country. Guinea currently depends heavily on hydroelectric power generation, which can become less reliable during periods of low rainfall or seasonal weather changes. In addition, the country still relies on costly and polluting thermal power plants to meet electricity demand in some areas. By adding utility-scale solar capacity, the government aims to diversify its energy sources and create a more stable and sustainable power system.

The planned solar PV plant will be constructed across nearly 80 hectares of land. Alongside the solar installation, the project also includes major upgrades to transmission infrastructure. Around 350 kilometers of high-voltage transmission lines will be built, along with two large transformer substations. These developments are expected to improve the integration of renewable energy into the national grid while also extending electricity access to inland and underserved regions.

The project is expected to create economic opportunities during the construction phase, with estimates suggesting that more than 600 jobs will be generated at peak activity. Authorities are also placing strong emphasis on skills development and technical training for local workers. Training programs will help Guinean personnel gain experience in operating and maintaining modern renewable energy systems, supporting the country’s long-term clean energy ambitions.

Another important feature of the project is its planned integration with Guinea’s existing hydroelectric resources, including the nearby Garafiri dam. Through a hybrid energy approach, solar power generated during daylight hours can reduce pressure on hydroelectric facilities, allowing water to be conserved for electricity generation at night or during dry periods. This combination is expected to improve grid stability and energy security. The project represents an important milestone in Guinea’s renewable energy transition and supports the country’s target of achieving 30 percent renewable energy generation by 2030 while improving electricity access and supporting economic growth.