Powering Progress: Investment Opportunities in Mauritania's Energy Transformation
A strategic government push unlocks significant potential in electricity generation and infrastructure development.
Addressing Core Energy Challenges: The Foundation for Growth
The Mauritanian government has strategically prioritized the energy sector, tackling four fundamental challenges head-on to create a stable and attractive investment environment:
1. Production Scalability
Ensuring sufficient, reliable energy generation capacity to meet escalating domestic demand and power industrial expansion.
2. Distribution Network Enhancement
Modernizing and expanding the national electricity grid to improve reliability and reach underserved areas.
3. SOMELEC Operational Efficiency
Implementing structural, financial, and technical reforms within the national electricity company (SOMELEC) to boost performance.
4. Cost Optimization
Addressing the high cost per kilowatt-hour through strategic investments in diverse and efficient energy sources.
Strategic Roadmap: Doubling Energy Production
The government's ambitious plan aims to resolve these challenges comprehensively, setting a clear target to double national energy production in the coming years. This proactive approach signals a robust commitment to sector growth and investor confidence.
Short-Term Initiatives (Driving Immediate Impact):
Nouadhibou Power Plant Expansion
+60 MW additional capacity, raising total production to 240 MW.
Timeline: Commencing April 28, 2025 (15-month duration).
Renewable Energy PPP
60 MW (Wind & Solar) with battery storage.
Structure: Public-Private Partnership (Investor agreement expected within 2-3 months).
Boulenouar Wind Farm Boost
+20 MW capacity increase using battery storage.
Medium-Term Gas Power Projects (Transformative Scale):
Injago Gas Plant (GTA Field)
230 MW capacity utilizing gas from the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) field.
Investment: Foreign investor agreement targeted by year-end.
Banda Field Power & Nouakchott Conversion
Conversion of main Nouakchott plant (Diesel to Gas): 180 MW to 240 MW, reducing cost & pollution.
New Banda Plant: 300 MW via foreign investment, supplying SOMELEC & northern mining companies.
Expanding Reach: National Distribution Network Upgrade
Significant investments are bolstering the national grid infrastructure:
Nouakchott-Zouérat High-Voltage Line
225 kV line connecting the capital to northern mining regions.
Completion: Expected by end of 2025.
Nouakchott-Néma High-Voltage Line
Connecting major cities, supporting agriculture, industry, and potential electricity exports.
Status: Development underway, tenders imminent.
"Development of Interior Cities" Project
Focus: Universal electricity access in villages/towns via network expansion, lighting, and small power stations.
Funding: 40 Billion MRO (Old Ouguiyas).
Strengthening the Core: SOMELEC Restructuring
Parallel to infrastructure development, the Ministry is actively restructuring SOMELEC. This initiative focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, resolving legacy issues, and improving overall performance to ensure a reliable off-taker and partner for investors.
Focus on the Capital: Nouakchott Modernization Plan
A dedicated 18 Billion MRO (Old Ouguiyas) is allocated to significantly enhance Nouakchott's electricity grid. Key actions include:
- Modernizing infrastructure under the "Nouakchott Modernization" plan.
- Developing new distribution and connection networks city-wide.
- Upgrading outdated transformers for improved reliability.
- Providing dedicated, consistent power supply to the crucial Industrial Zone.
Investor Outlook: A Sector Poised for Growth
The comprehensive government strategy and significant planned investments signal a transformative period for Mauritania's energy sector. The energy landscape is set for substantial improvement in the coming years, creating a highly promising and stable environment for investment.
Crucially, a new energy law now permits direct investor participation in the sector, opening doors for private investment in electricity production and related infrastructure projects.
Explore the potential. Invest in Mauritania's energy future.
