The Soubré Hydroelectric Power Station in Côte d’Ivoire is a prime example of how hydropower, a form of renewable energy, can be harnessed to generate clean electricity. Located in the Bas Sassandra region on the Sassandra River, this large-scale power plant utilises the natural flow of the river to produce 270 MW of clean energy.
The Soubré project also incorporates a smaller, 5.35 MW micro-hydro plant located near the Nawa Falls. This micro-plant takes advantage of the natural 42-metre drop of the waterfalls through a dedicated 17.3km² reservoir. Together, both power stations contribute significantly to Côte d’Ivoire’s electricity needs using a clean and sustainable resource.
Benefits: Climate & Environment
The Soubré Hydroelectric Power Station’s annual emissions reduction is estimated to be 2,566,000 tonnes of CO2e per year. This provides several key environmental and economic benefits for the region:
- Reduced reliance on fossil fuels: Prior to the Soubré station, a large portion of Ivory Coast’s electricity came from natural gas and fuel oil, leading to substantial greenhouse gas emissions. By generating clean power, Soubré displaces fossil fuel dependence, contributing to long-term climate change mitigation efforts.
- Improved air quality: Unlike fossil fuel plants, hydropower produces electricity with zero emissions during operation. This significantly reduces air pollution, leading to improved public health in surrounding communities.
- Meeting growing energy demands: With a total capacity of 275 MW, the Soubré station is a crucial contributor to meeting Côte d’Ivoire’s ever-increasing demand for electricity. This ensures sustainable economic growth without compromising environmental goals.
- Carbon credit potential: The clean energy generated by Soubré creates tradable carbon credits, offering a financial incentive for continued reliance on renewable sources. This can further support investment in green energy projects throughout the country.
Benefits: Social & Economic
The Soubré Hydroelectric Power Station extends its positive impact beyond the generation of clean energy. It serves as a catalyst for significant improvements in the lives of local communities. Key benefits include:
- Improved access to clean drinking water: The Soubré Hydroelectric Power Station facilitates the expansion of public water pipelines along the Sassandra River. This ensures a reliable supply of clean drinking water for communities that previously had limited access. Additionally, a dedicated water treatment plant fed directly from the reservoir eliminates the need for energy-intensive pumping and treatment of surface water.
- Enhanced social and economic opportunities: The creation of the reservoir unlocks new possibilities. Calm waters promote recreational fishing, offering leisure and potentially a source of income for locals. The project also prioritises responsible development by rehabilitating existing infrastructure like roads, schools, and medical centres, creating a stronger foundation for the community’s growth.
- Boosted agricultural productivity: Water irrigation provided by the Soubré project empowers local farms to expand operations and increase agricultural yields. This not only improves food security but also injects revenue into the local economy, raising living standards for residents.
- Job creation and economic benefits: The construction and ongoing operation of the power station has created significant job opportunities for the local workforce. These workers gain valuable skills and contribute directly to the project’s success. This creates a ripple effect of economic benefits throughout the region.
Project Verification
