In a significant step towards achieving its renewable energy goals, Madagascar has announced the launch of two solar photovoltaic (PV) projects with a combined capacity of 210MW.
The larger of the two projects, boasting a capacity of 200MW, is set to be located in the region of Ihazolava. Meanwhile, the second project will have a capacity of 10MW and will be constructed in the coastal city of Mahajanga, situated on the northwest coast of the country.
Interested bidders for both solar plants are required to submit a preliminary report, detailing the nature and capacity of the proposed facilities, along with the amount of investment needed. The Ministry of Energy and Hydrocarbons in Madagascar has issued the tenders, with a deadline for applications set for 9 August 2023.
These ambitious projects align with Madagascar's energy policy, as outlined in their 2015 publication. The country aims to achieve an impressive 85% of renewable energy in its energy mix by 2030, as cited in the Solarize Africa Market Report.
Recent developments in the renewable energy sector have already been witnessed in Madagascar. NextSource Materials, a Canadian-headquartered mining company, successfully completed its solar-hybrid power plant to supply energy to its Molo graphite mine located in southern Madagascar. Developed by Kenyan company CrossBoundary Energy, the project has an impressive capacity of 2.6MW and is expected to produce an estimated annual output of 4GWh.
With these new solar PV projects on the horizon, Madagascar is poised to become a beacon of sustainable energy in the region, making strides towards a greener and more environmentally conscious future.
