(Ecofin Agency) - Côte d'Ivoire aims to achieve a 100% electricity coverage rate by the end of 2025. As part of this ambition, the country receives support from the United States.

The U.S. is disbursing $80 million to support the development of electricity projects in Côte d'Ivoire, as reported by Enoh T. Ebong, the director of the United States Trade and Development Agency (Ustda). She announced that during her visit to Abidjan last March 16 to 19.

According to comments reported by local media Fraternité Matin, over $70 million of this funding will be dedicated to strengthening the Ivorian electrical grid, especially in covering hard-to-reach areas. A project in partnership with Côte d'Ivoire Énergies, the public electricity transport company, aims to develop an emergency control system for the electrical grid, with the goal of increasing its stability and reducing power outages. The rest of the funds will be allocated to sustainable energy projects, digitalization, and health protection, she explained.

As part of its development strategy, Côte d'Ivoire has committed to achieving a 100% electrical coverage rate by the end of 2025. To this end, the Ivorian government has agreed to an investment of CFA6,800 billion ($11.26 billion) for the period 2014-2030, which includes the completion of several significant infrastructures as well as social outreach programs. Examples are the National Rural Electrification Program (PRONER) and the Electricity for All Program (PEPT), which aim to extend electrical coverage throughout the country.

These initiatives have been fruitful, with the electricity coverage rate increasing from 27.9% in 2013 to 65% in 2022, according to government data.

However, Côte d'Ivoire still faces many challenges, particularly in providing continuous electricity supply. A 10% increase in electricity prices last January highlighted difficulties related to the profitability of companies operating in the sector. The government attributed the increase to a financial imbalance in the sector, with an operating loss estimated at CFA161 billion for 2023 alone.