• Senelec acquires 100% of WAE, takes control of 366 MW plant

• Plant to supply 25% of demand, nearing completion at 97.5%

• Move supports gas-to-power strategy, aims for universal access by 2029

Senegal’s state-owned power utility Senelec has become the sole shareholder of West African Energy (WAE) after acquiring 100% of its capital, taking full control of the country’s largest combined-cycle gas power plant, with a capacity of 366 MW.

The acquisition is intended to ensure the plant is completed and brought online more quickly. Once operational, it is expected to cover nearly 25% of national electricity demand, Senelec said in a statement released on Saturday, April 25. The project is financed by a consortium of domestic private investors.

Beyond boosting supply, the project is expected to strengthen energy independence and support Senegal’s shift toward gas-fired power generation, which emits less carbon. It forms part of the country’s “Gas-to-Power” strategy and aligns with the objectives of Agenda Sénégal 2050.

State Steps In to Revive Project

State intervention proved critical in unlocking the project, which had been delayed by governance disputes among shareholders and financing constraints. A mediation process helped stabilize governance, secure funding and pave the way for Senelec’s full takeover.

The project is now 97.5% complete. Key milestones include open-cycle commissioning, first synchronization with the national grid in April 2025 and the gradual startup of turbines. Final commissioning in combined-cycle mode will depend on gas supply.

“Through this acquisition, Senelec confirms its central role in transforming the national energy sector and reaffirms its commitment to providing reliable, competitive electricity access,” the company said.

Senegal is pursuing universal electricity access by 2029. Under its “Energy Compact” plan, access is expected to increase by 2.9% annually, allowing the country to reach full coverage one year ahead of the 2030 deadline set under Sustainable Development Goal 7, according to the International Energy Agency’s Electricity 2026 report published in February.

Charlène N’dimon