On June 5, 2024, POWERCHINA announced the commissioning of the Gribo-Popoli hydroelectric power station on the Sassandra River in Côte d’Ivoire, following a successful 72-hour test phase. Completed ahead of schedule, this project marks a crucial milestone for the region’s energy supply, with significant implications for the Ivorian economy and West Africa’s energy sector. With this project, POWERCHINA continues toinvest and develop on the African continent.
A strategic project for Ivorian energy
The Gribo-Popoli hydroelectric power station, located downstream of the Soubre power station, is the second project of this type carried out by POWERCHINA in the Sassandra river basin. With an installed capacity of 112.9 MW and a storage capacity of 82 million cubic meters, this 4.2-kilometer-long, 18.58-meter-high infrastructure represents a major investment for Côte d’Ivoire. Since work began in August 2021, the teams have overcome numerous technical and logistical challenges to complete this installation ahead of schedule.
Completion of the Gribo-Popoli project is crucial to Côte d’Ivoire’s energy balance. By increasing the country’s power generation capacity, the new plant will help stabilize energy supplies, reducing the risk of power cuts that can hamper economic growth. Surplus electricity generated can also be exported to neighboring countries, reinforcing Côte d’Ivoire’s position as a key energy supplier in West Africa.
Economic and social benefits
The commissioning of the Gribo-Popoli line has major economic implications for Côte d’Ivoire. By generating a surplus of electricity, the country will not only be able to meet its domestic demand, but also export energy to neighboring countries, creating additional revenue. This increase in power generation capacity is also an asset for attracting new industrial investment and fostering local economic development.
Mr. Noumory Sidibe, General Manager of the project owner, underlined the strategic importance of this project for Côte d’Ivoire. He stated that the Gribo-Popoli plant will make a significant contribution to the expansion of the country’s electricity supply, facilitating energy exports and supporting economic growth.
Governor KONE also expressed his satisfaction with the progress made, seeing the plant as a source of national pride. According to him, the completion of this project will make the Soubre province a key region for energy production in Côte d’Ivoire.
Project challenges and achievements
The development of the Gribo-Popoli project has not been without its challenges. The teams in the field had to cope with difficult geographical and climatic conditions, as well as logistical obstacles. Nevertheless, POWERCHINA’s determination and technical skills enabled us to overcome these challenges and complete construction of the plant on schedule.
Project management also involved close coordination with local authorities and surrounding communities. POWERCHINA has worked closely with the Ivorian authorities to ensure that construction work runs smoothly and complies with local and international standards.
Future prospects
With the commissioning of the Gribo-Popoli power plant, POWERCHINA strengthens its presence in Côte d’Ivoire and its role in the African energy sector. The company plans to continue developing similar projects in the region to bring more energy and support the economic development of African countries.
In the future, POWERCHINA could explore new partnership opportunities with African governments to develop modern, reliable energy infrastructures. These initiatives would benefit not only the host countries, but also the energy stability of the entire region.
Future prospects for the Gribo-Popoli hydroelectric power plant are promising. By ensuring a stable energy supply and generating revenue through electricity exports, this project plays a crucial role in strengthening the Ivorian economy and promoting regional energy cooperation.
