What is the electricity system in the Gambia?

The existing electricity network in The Gambia consists of a number of separate 33 kV and 30 kV systems fed from local power plants throughout the country. On-going projects are developing the transmission grid to interconnect these systems and establish interconnections with neighbouring systems.

Will the Gambia be able to provide universal access to electricity?

The Gambia is poised to provide access to electricity for all its people. His Excellency, President Adama Barrow has stipulated that there is to be Universal Access by 2025. Given its unique geography, the country is fortunate in being able to achieve universal access almost exclusively through connections to the NAWEC grid.

Can the Gambia transform the energy sector?

An unprecedented level of support from the international community provides The Gambia with the opportunity to transform the energy sector and emerge as one of the leading energy sectors in the sub-region and the African continent. In this context, the Electricity Roadmap has undergone its third update since 2015.

Should MV grid be strengthened in the Gambia?

Reinforcement of the MV grid from Farafenni or via a cable across the river from Banjul are alternatives that may be considered if the western corridor does not present a viable solution. Transmission developments in The Gambia should be considered in relation to regional options.

Why is electricity so expensive in The Gambia?

The average tariff for electricity in The Gambia is one of the highest in the world at $0.23/kilowatt hour (kWh). This high cost is due to expensive imports of HFO for NAWEC’s generators, leading to increased production and supply expenses.

How much power does the Gambia have?

As described in the previous section, transmission linkages will create a unified national network by 2022-23. As of mid 2021, the total net installed capacity in The Gambia is 154.5 MW of reciprocating engines, but only 97.0 MW are currently available for power generation.