AXIAN Energy Breaks Ground On The NEA Kolda Solar Power Plant
May 23, 2025
AXIAN Energy has officially broken ground on the NEA Kolda solar power plant, marking the start of construction works. The plant is located in Tankanto Escale, in the southern region of Kolda, Senegal, approximately 700 km from Dakar.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held in the presence of regional authorities and local communities, who are the primary beneficiaries of this high-impact project.
1. A Strategic Driver of Senegal’s Energy Transition
As Senegal aims to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix to 40% by 2030, NEA Kolda stands as a cornerstone of this ambition. With an installed capacity of 60MW and an energy storage system (BESS) of 72 MWh, the project is set to become a regional benchmark for innovation in the energy sector.
The plant will secure electricity access for more than 235,000 people and strengthen the national grid’s resilience during peak demand. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to delivering cleaner, more accessible, and affordable energy.
2. A Strategic Alliance of Key Stakeholders
The success of the NEA Kolda project is driven by a close collaboration among major players in the energy sector and leading development finance institutions. In October 2024, the Emerging Africa & Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF), the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank (FMO), and the German development finance institution (DEG) committed €84 million to support the implementation of this strategic infrastructure. The total investment now stands at approximately €105 million.
The design and construction of the solar and storage facilities are being handled by the Voltalia–Entech consortium, both recognized leaders in the renewable energy sector.
This collective mobilization is part of a broader continental movement towards an energy transition that reduces fossil fuel dependency and increases the share of renewable energy across Africa.
Benjamin Memmi, CEO of AXIAN Energy, said: "I am especially proud and pleased to lay the foundation stone today alongside our valued partners who have consistently supported this emblematic project. Rooted in long-term sustainability and local needs, this endeavor embodies a new generation of energy infrastructure in West Africa—driven by inclusion, innovation, and regional impact. Today marks the start of a transformative project that will meaningfully contribute to Senegal’s energy independence."
3. A Catalyst for Economic and Social Transformation
Staying true to its mission of delivering high-impact projects for local communities, AXIAN Energy places human and economic development at the heart of its initiatives. NEA Kolda is a tangible example of this commitment. Beyond energy production, the project is a powerful engine for social and economic transformation in the Casamance region.
The project also includes an ambitious CSR action plan, built around five key pillars: Access to healthcare Educational and social achievement Economic development Promotion of sports and culture Climate change adaptation
AXIAN Energy has invested nearly 2 billion FCFA in a series of high-impact social initiatives to support vulnerable populations in building lasting autonomy:
Strengthening Economic Empowerment
Financial literacy training sessions have been organized to help beneficiaries—especially women and youth—better manage income, structure their businesses, and develop long-term entrepreneurial skills.
Supporting Sustainable Agriculture
To improve food security and boost local productivity, training in sustainable farming practices was provided along with the distribution of seeds. These efforts have enabled farmers to adopt better agricultural methods, increase yields, and improve natural resource management while gaining economic autonomy.
Boosting Livestock Development
Several initiatives have been rolled out to support livestock farming, including the construction of a vaccination park, provision of veterinary equipment, training for breeders, building of a production track to open up livestock areas, and installation of watering points. These actions have improved animal health, facilitated access to veterinary services, and strengthened farmers’ resilience to climate challenges.
Key upcoming community initiatives include the construction of a maternity center to provide safe access to quality care for women and newborns, as well as the development of sports facilities to promote the positive values of sport: perseverance, teamwork, and solidarity.
Beyond its energy contribution, the NEA Kolda project will also play a vital role in boosting local employability. Nearly 400 workers from the region will be involved in the plant's construction and, later, in its operational management—fostering inclusive and sustainable economic development.
Maïramou HAMAN ADJI, Impact & Sustainability Manager at AXIAN Energy, commented: "At AXIAN Energy, we believe that energy is a catalyst for territorial transformation. That’s why the NEA Kolda plant comes with an ambitious CSR program focused on sustainable food and economic autonomy, ensuring this infrastructure directly benefits local communities. Our mission is to make every project a source of human progress—contributing to an inclusive energy transition deeply rooted in African territories."
AXIAN Energy is the Energy division of the AXIAN Group and a pan African developer of large-scale renewable energy projects. The company has a dual mission: to promote innovation in renewable energy and to advance energy inclusion across the African continent.
AXIAN Energy operates in 9 African countries through its subsidiaries: NEA, WeLight, CGHV, JOVENA, and EYDON. The company currently manages a renewable energy portfolio of 183MW, with a project pipeline of 800MW and a target of reaching 1GW of installed renewable capacity by 2030.
As a trusted African partner with deep expertise and a talented team of 800 employees, AXIAN Energy is uniquely positioned to lead and deliver high- impact renewable energy projects across the continent.
