Axian and Sika invest €45 million in four solar power plants in Benin

Pan-African group Axian Energy and its Beninese financial partner, Sika Capital, have confirmed the implementation of a project to build four photovoltaic power plants in Benin. These energy infrastructures aim for a combined capacity of 50 megawatts (MW), distributed across four sites: Bohicon, Parakou, Djougou, and Natitingou. According to the project leaders, this initiative is part of Benin’s efforts to diversify its energy mix.

The national target, set at 30% renewables by 2030, remains ambitious for a country where current production relies on about 16% renewable sources. This project adds to other solar and wind initiatives launched in recent years, reflecting growing interest in decentralizing energy production.

Geographic distribution and energy coverage

The four plants will be located in strategic areas of the country to optimize electricity distribution and access. Bohicon, Parakou, Djougou, and Natitingou were selected for their solar radiation potential and their role in structuring the national grid. According to estimates by Axian Energy and Sika Capital, these infrastructures could meet the electricity needs of nearly 50,000 households.

Electricity coverage in Benin is currently estimated at 42%, with significant disparities between urban centers and rural areas. These territorial imbalances pose a challenge for national energy planning and universal access policies.

Financing structure and partners involved

The total investment for the project is estimated at €45 million. According to the companies’ joint statement, €35 million will come from two international institutions specializing in development financing, whose identities were not disclosed. The remainder will be provided by the private partners involved in the consortium.

Axian Energy, already active in nine African countries, is strengthening its portfolio of energy assets in a region where electrification needs remain high. Sika Capital, for its part, contributes to the project’s local structuring and alignment with national strategies.

Regional context and solar potential

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), around 50% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa still lacks access to electricity. Benin, like many countries in the region, is positioned in an energy growth context where demand far exceeds installed capacity.

The sub-Saharan zone receives about 40% of the world’s solar radiation, which provides significant potential for photovoltaic development. Despite this, Africa’s renewable capacity represents only 2% of global installations today.