In a nation where only 8% of the populace has access to electricity, a newly constructed solar power facility by the UAE has illuminated 274,000 homes.
Global South Utilities (GSU) from Abu Dhabi celebrated the opening of the 50MW Noor Chad Solar Plant in N’Djamena this weekend, signifying a major step for one of Africa’s least electrified countries. This project integrates solar panels with battery storage, ensuring continuous electricity supply.
Chad ranks low globally in electricity access, with its citizens consuming just 47 kilowatt-hours annually, far below the regional average of 107 kilowatt-hours. The country primarily depends on costly imported diesel for power.
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“Initially, the impact will be felt by homes, hospitals, and schools around N’Djamena,” stated Ali Alshimmari, CEO and Managing Director of GSU, to Khaleej Times. “Reliable electricity means vaccines are preserved, classrooms remain lit, and households reduce reliance on expensive diesel.”
The facility comprises 81,000 solar panels and 158 inverters, coupled with a 5 megawatt-hour battery system for energy storage at night. The construction achieved over 350,000 safe work hours, showcasing swift execution in demanding environments.
“This marks our first complete project from signing to commissioning in Africa,” Alshimmari told Khaleej Times. “It demonstrates how quickly markets can advance with commitment and effective partnerships that transform challenges into opportunities.”
The environmental benefits are substantial, with the project set to prevent 1.36 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions over its lifetime and decrease Chad’s diesel import reliance that burdens government finances.
The launch was attended by high-ranking Chadian officials, including Minister of State Mahamat Ahmad Alhabo and UAE Ambassador Rashid Al Shamsi.
‘A Choice of Conviction’
“Chad wasn’t chosen for convenience—it was a choice driven by conviction,” Alshimmari declared. “The country deserved a pioneering project that showcases renewable energy potential.”
The plant is a blueprint for future renewable projects in Chad and neighboring countries with limited energy access. GSU plans to replicate similar initiatives across Africa using the same rapid-deployment strategy.
“For the Global South, the message is clear: infrastructure development doesn’t have to take decades,” Alshimmari emphasized. “With the right partners, progress is achievable now.”
“Partnership isn’t defined by a single project, but by the trust it builds,” he added. “For us, Noor Chad is foundational—proof that the UAE and Africa can collaborate sustainably, respectfully, and in the long term.”
The plant is now operational, supplying power to Chad’s national grid, with GSU continuing to oversee operations and maintenance.
