Norway-based renewable energy firm Scatec has successfully concluded the construction of two solar power plants with integrated battery storage in the northern regions of Maroua and Guider, Cameroon. These innovative facilities, boasting a combined 36 MW of photovoltaic (PV) capacity and 20 MW/19 MWh of energy storage, are equipped with over 44,800 bifacial solar panels mounted on trackers, and are anticipated to produce approximately 80 GWh of electricity annually. In a collaborative effort with Eneo Cameroun, the national electricity provider, the plants were seamlessly connected to the Northern Interconnected Network (NIN).
Originally conceived as a photovoltaic project in 2019, the capacity of these two plants experienced incremental growth, ultimately reaching a capacity of 36 MW. The integration of battery storage was a strategic decision to improve energy stability and enable nighttime electricity usage.
The Ministry of Water and Energy in Cameroon has expressed high expectations for the positive impact of these solar plants. It is projected that they will reduce regional power interruptions by an impressive 98% and lead to substantial cost savings in fuel expenses. As part of this initiative, Scatec introduced the “Release by Scatec” offering, which includes rental contracts for pre-assembled storage batteries integrated into energy production infrastructure.
As of the end of 2022, Cameroon had a modest 14 MW of installed PV capacity, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency. The completion of these solar power plants by Scatec marks a significant step towards enhancing the nation's renewable energy infrastructure and promoting sustainable energy solutions in the region.
