Akuo Energy has committed to build two solar photovoltaic (PV) plants in Mali totaling 41 MW, through a partnership with non-profit the R20 (Geneva, Switzerland) which also includes hydroelectric plants.
Akuo states that it will ensure financing and begin construction “in the coming months”. R20 identified these and 120 MW of hydroelectric projects, for which the government of Mali will supply land.
“Africa appears to us to be particularly promising for renewable energy development,” notes Akuo Energy President Eric Scotto. “Combining a strong potential for renewable energy in terms of resources and biodiversity, as well as and well-known constraints, such as population density and a weak electric grid infrastructure, this continent presents us with all of the types of challenges that we love and know how to take on.”
“We are even prouder to be chosen by the R20 since this first African challenge will take place in Mali: as a French SME, we will build energy infrastructures that will lead the Mali to greater energy independence.”
The Kita and Kangaba PV projects are located in Western Mali. Akuo notes that the Malian government has found positive results for the two projects in feasibility studies.