What are the progress of Djibouti's goal of producing 100% of energy from renewable sources by 2035?
Since COP21 in 2015, Djibouti has made a strong commitment to the energy transition. Today, our country generates about 80% of that energy from renewable energy sources. It is mainly thanks to the interconnection with Ethiopia and the development of wind farms. Only 20% of the production required to stabilize the network depends on heat sources.
This places Djibouti among energy transition leaders at the same level as countries like Portugal and Costa Rica.
In the long term, our ambition is to achieve energy self-sufficiency by producing 100% of electricity from clean energy sources. We have over 350 days of sunlight a year, and the winds of the Gulf of Aden can be significant.
Djibouti is located in Rift Valley and offers a unique opportunity to develop geothermal energy. There are also biomass and tide-powered energy production projects, as well as initiatives on green hydrogen.
The liberalization of the energy sector led to the entry of independent electricity producers (IPPs). What is the evaluation of this development?
The liberalization of the sector began in 2015, with laws allowing independent producers to enter the energy sector. Prior to that, only state-owned enterprises produced electricity from thermal power plants. Today, with the reduced costs of renewable energy, the market is more attractive and we have seen the arrival of new private players. This is a huge step forward.
In 2023, Djibouti launched its first wind farm in Goubet Bay (17 wind turbines with a total capacity of 60 MW) developed in a public-private partnership, including the African Finance Corporation (AFC). What is your rating after a year and a half of the surgery?
The project was the first large-scale renewable energy project to be realized and is a major turning point for Djibouti.
After over a year of operation, we are very pleased. Parks make a significant contribution to the energy mix, showing fellow citizens that renewable energy is a concrete reality rather than a theory.
This is just the first stage. The park will be expanded to add 40 MW, potentially reaching a total capacity of 100 MW over the next few years.
Grand Bara Solar Farm is another major project. When can you expect it to be entrusted?
Grand Bara Solar Farm, a key project in Djibouti's energy transition, is on track. Construction begins in the initial phase of 25 MW, with 10 MW in the storage battery. This phase will be in operation by the first quarter of 2026 and could be extended by up to 100 MW over the next five years. We have signed all the necessary contracts with investors, AMEA Power and construction.
How much electricity does Djibouti still import from Ethiopia?
Today, about 50% of our electricity comes from Ethiopia. The second electrical interconnection line currently under construction will allow for diversifying energy imports and enhancing energy security.
Energy demand is constantly increasing, especially due to the country's industrialization and the future development of Daemeljog Port. How does Djibouti intend to meet this demand?
This increase should be predicted. Currently, the country has reached a peak consumption of 155 MW, but increases by 10-15% per year due to urban and industrial development demand. Our aim is to increase production to 400-500 MW over the next five years to accommodate this growth.
Are all areas connected to an electrical grid?
No, the country's south is connected to the capital, but the north is not yet connected. However, it promoted solar energy production projects in two northern regions. One is Tajra and one is Obock with 2 MW or more, the other is Obock with 1 MW or more.
Today, approximately 65% to 70% of the population have access to electricity. Our goal is to achieve 100% electrification over the next five years. Electrification across the territory is a priority in our energy strategy.
Djibouti is said to have one of the highest electricity rates in Africa. Why and how can it reduce it?
First of all, I would like to point out that we don't have one of the highest tariffs in Africa. It is important to know that there is a customs table with offers from 11 to 12, not a single customs.
It is true that for the poorest households, tariffs are around 12 cents per kWh. Current electricity costs are, among other things, due to the lack of general subsidies, unlike other countries, and the use of generators and import of energy.
To improve this, we have introduced several tariff reductions since 2011. We continue our efforts by increasing our share of renewable energy.
However, the country's climate is also a challenge in terms of managing costs, as it has high summer temperatures and high demand for air conditioning.
What measures are planned to improve the competitiveness of energy costs?
We have already implemented measures to reduce this cost, and that reduction is one of the government's priorities. But don't forget that Djibouti is proud to be able to provide continuous 24-hour power with a stable network, a substantial asset.
Our country has also approved the self-producing of energy for a certain amount of capacity produced. We issue approvals and licenses to self-producers, including hotels, embassies, bank headquarters, and private homes. Not only can these producers consume their own energy, they can also turn the surplus back into the grid.
How is the government raising awareness among businesses and households about improving energy management?
We recommend installing solar panels, wind turbines, low consumption devices (LED lamps, high-performance air conditioners, etc.). The project is underway at the French development agency, with more than 11 management facilities in solar panels, including the ministerial complex, modernizing the infrastructure.
Will Djibouti achieve energy autonomy with the rise of renewable energy?
Yes, it's a realistic and achievable goal. There are several parallel projects: solar, geothermal, tide, hydrogen, biomass.
Geothermal energy is an important resource that can be operated continuously and ensure stable production. Djibouti has the potential to be geothermal at 1,000 mw or more, and I intend to exploit this.
There is also a green hydrogen project in the northern part of the country, which can work with international company CWP Global to produce solar and wind energy for 5-10 GW.
We are on the right track. Thanks to four strategic pillars (national production, renewable energy, universal access, and energy efficiency), we are heading towards a sustainable energy mix. Within five years, the current project will ensure sufficient local production and will soon consider exporting.
