Guinea requires significant investments in its energy production, transportation, and distribution networks to ensure a reliable, high-quality energy supply, essential for both its population and economic development, Minister of Energy Namory Camara told Anadolu.
Camara emphasized that to support energy production, investments should target hydroelectric systems, gas-fired thermal plants, solar power, and the development of micro-dams.
"This is a chain in which every link must be strengthened to prevent disruptions at any level, thereby ensuring reliable, high-quality energy services," he added.
- Major projects and policy reforms drive energy growth
Camara said a master plan covering production, transmission, and distribution until 2035 has been prepared, with several major projects already in the pipeline.
Over the next five years, production capacity requirements are expected to reach 3,000 megawatts (MW), and over the next 15 years, 10,000 MW, with 70% of the energy coming from renewable sources.
"Additionally, there are transport and distribution network needs," he added.
The plan covers national energy needs under various demand growth scenarios, including production, transmission, and distribution up to 2035, he explained.
Major restructuring is underway to enhance statistical services and data analysis in the energy sector, with regulations updated to address climate change, energy efficiency, and regional electricity market challenges.
He also noted that planned hydropower plants include Grand Kinkon (291 MW) in Pita, Morissananko (100 MW) in Kankan, the multipurpose Fomi plant (90 MW) in the Niger basin, and Koukoutamba (294 MW) in the Senegal River basin.
A hybrid complex at Kakara (120 MW) is also at an advanced stage, while new solar projects are being developed with private partners to diversify the energy mix and promote storage systems for grid stability.
- Private sector partnerships key to universal energy access by 2040
Guinea is diversifying the national energy mix by developing renewables, especially photovoltaic power plants, in partnership with private companies, Camara revealed.
"We also plan to promote solar storage systems to stabilize the grid," he said.
Guinea's energy policy is primarily based on "harnessing renewable energy potential," particularly hydropower and solar, Camara said.
The development of solar power plants is an integral part of the country's energy policy, he noted, adding that they plan to explore wind corridors in some parts of the country, although the surveys have not yet revealed significant wind speeds.
"Because solar and wind are intermittent, their deployment must be paired with backup energy solutions, particularly storage," he explained.
- Guinea eyes private sector, foreign partners for energy growth
Recalling that Guinea's President Gen. Mamady Doumbouya directive that mining contracts be respected and minerals processed locally, Camara said: "The Ministry of Energy considers mining companies' needs in its infrastructure development plan. Studies have been conducted on their energy demand and connection to the national grid."
He underlined that the most important mineral resources for Guinea's economy include bauxite, iron, and gold, with concessions awarded to partners such as SAG, CBG, RUSAL, Winning Consortium Simandou, Rio Tinto, etc.
"We strongly welcome foreign investment and private sector involvement. Foreign investors can participate across all segments of the sector, particularly production, distribution, and marketing," he added.
Camara noted that Guinea aims to achieve 100% universal access to energy services by 2040, emphasizing that "The most essential partnership is a mutually beneficial Public-Private Partnership (PPP) involving both government entities and private operators."
During diplomatic meetings in Türkiye's capital, Ankara, in August, Türkiye and Guinea agreed to enhance cooperation in the energy sector, promote private investment through PPPs and Independent Power Producers (IPP), advance technical collaboration on Guinea's electricity market, and develop joint projects spanning energy, mining, and logistics.
By Basak Erkalan
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr
