NAWEC Signs US$169 million PPA for 148.44MW Soma Solar Park Phase II in The Gambia

The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) of The Gambia has signed a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Soliaris Africa Ltd. (Mark Cables FZE) for the development of the Soma Solar Park Phase II project. Valued at US$169 million, the project is intended to expand the country’s renewable energy generation capacity and improve the reliability of its electricity supply.

The project will comprise a 148.44MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant integrated with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). NAWEC expects the facility to generate approximately 250GWh of electricity annually once commissioned, helping to meet growing electricity demand across The Gambia. A key component of the development is the battery storage system, which is specified in NAWEC’s announcement as having a capacity of 50MW and an energy storage capacity of 200MWh. The system will store electricity generated during periods of strong sunlight and discharge it during peak demand, particularly in the evening and at night when solar generation is unavailable.

The project is expected to help reduce NAWEC’s dependence on higher-cost electricity sources and improve the overall efficiency of the national power system. By supplying renewable electricity during periods of peak demand, the facility could lower generation costs and support more affordable electricity for consumers. The development also forms part of The Gambia’s broader strategy to expand clean energy infrastructure, improve electricity access and support long-term economic and social development.