Abu Dhabi Fund for Development finances solar energy project in Somaliland

A solar energy project financed by Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, ADFD, at Berbera in Somaliland was inaugurated. The plant, which is connected to the local electricity grid, will meet the increasing demand of the entire city of approximately 50,000 people. Set up at a cost of AED29.3 million, the 7-megawatt Berbera hybrid mini-grid project will significantly bring down energy tariffs, apart from supporting economic development and reducing the country’s carbon footprint. The expansion of Berbera city has created additional demand, which the plant will fulfil.

The project was launched by HE Abdirahman Abdilahi Ismail, Vice President of the Republic of Somaliland, under the auspices of HE Jama Mohamoud Egal, Minister of Energy and Minerals, in the presence of officials and dignitaries from both sides.

Commenting on the momentous occasion, HE Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD said, “Our renewable-energy project in Berbera will play a strategic role in our larger effort to sustainably drive up the economy and raise the standard of living in benefited area,” he said, adding that its benefit would be felt at many levels. “The demand for energy is growing continuously in Berbera as the population swells. This project will supply energy at a comparatively affordable price as it will replace the costly diesel with solar energy. That will lead to heightened economic activity, financial savings, reduction of carbon emissions and, therefore, improve the air quality. This will bring a qualitative transformation in the city.”

HE Jama Mohamoud Egal, Minister of Energy and Minerals said, “This is the first of its kind project in the country that will benefit individuals and businesses, while supporting the expanding port infrastructure. More importantly, its positive effect will be felt beyond the city borders. The project will stabilise electric supply in the city and make electricity more affordable to its estimated 50,000 people. The power plant will further support commercial development and port expansion. We are also happy to be joining the rest of the world in our efforts to tackle greenhouse emissions.”