Axian starts construction 60MW NEA Kolda solar project in Senegal

Axian Energy, a subsidiary of the Pan-African group Axian, has begun construction on the 60 MW NEA Kolda solar project in Senegal. Located approximately 700 km from the capital Dakar in the southern Kolda region, the power plant will include 70 MW of energy storage capacity.  

Axian held a groundbreaking ceremony for the project last week, attended by regional authorities and local communities. A consortium consisting of Voltalia and Entech will be responsible for the design and construction of the solar and storage facilities.

In October last year, Axian secured €84 million in financing for the NEA Kolda solar project from the Emerging Africa & Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF), the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank FMO, and Germany’s DEG. With this funding, the total investment in the project now reaches approximately €105 million.

Once operational, the solar farm is expected to provide electricity to over 235,000 people while enhancing the national grid’s resilience during peak demand periods. 

Furthermore, the project is expected to help Senegal increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix to 40% by 2030, bolstering the West African country’s plans to diversify its energy mix.

“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,” said Axian in a statement.

Axian highlighted that it will implement livestock support programs—including a vaccination park, veterinary equipment, breeder training, and infrastructure upgrades—to improve animal health and climate resilience. Additional projects include a maternity center for maternal care and sports facilities to promote youth development.