Central African Republic: UAE's Global South Utilities Inaugurates 50mw Solar Plant in Central African Republic

Abu Dhabi-based Global South Utilities (GSU) has officially opened a 50-megawatt solar power plant in the Central African Republic, marking the largest infrastructure project in the nation's history and increasing the country's electricity generation capacity by over 60%. The Sakaï solar photovoltaic plant, situated in Sakaï, is powered by 50 MW of generation capacity and a 15-megawatt-hour Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which enhances grid stability and improves reliable electricity access.

Spanning over 80,000 solar panels and 156 inverters, the facility is projected to provide clean electricity to more than 300,000 households while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 50,000 tonnes annually.

Ali Alshimmari, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Global South Utilities, hailed the project as a significant milestone for the Central African Republic, emphasizing the importance of partnership, commitment, and a shared vision for a better future. The inauguration ceremony welcomed Central African Republic President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, government officials, GSU representatives, and project partners.

The solar plant's successful completion follows the initiation of construction in August 2025, with GSU projecting that the expansion will bolster electricity access, stimulate economic growth, and attract investment, supporting hospitals, schools, public services, and businesses. The project was made possible through concessional financing from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development.

Alshimmari attributed the project's success to the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and credited GSU for contributing to Africa's long-term economic and social development. The Sakaï solar plant aligns with GSU's growing international energy portfolio, which includes projects in Chad and partnerships across Africa, Central Asia, and South America.

As Gulf countries, notably the UAE, invest heavily in renewable energy and infrastructure projects across Africa, the inauguration underscores the growing economic ties between the UAE and the Central African Republic.