On Monday, September 11, 2023, the Ghoubet region hosted the inauguration of the Red Sea Power wind farm, presided over by the President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Ismaël Omar Guelleh. In his address, the Head of State stated that this wind farm, comprising 17 wind turbines, will produce 60 MW and will gradually increase its capacity.
The desired future outlined in the strategic direction "Djibouti Vision 2035" assigns a prominent place to projects in the energy sector. Henceforth, Djibouti's energy independence is to be achieved through renewable energy, and the Ghoubet wind farm constitutes the cornerstone of the energy mix announced by the President's vision. Djibouti envisions itself in the near future as a leader in advocating for environmental causes in the East Africa region and is thus seeking to establish the appropriate infrastructure.
The President of the Republic was sure to highlight the numerous advantages this wind farm will bring to the country, such as: ensuring our energy security by significantly reducing Djibouti's dependence on imported fossil fuels; creating job opportunities in local industries while attracting foreign investment; strengthening Djibouti's contribution to the fight against climate change by achieving sustainable development objectives; and developing the agriculture, industry, and services sectors within a framework of sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
The Director General of the Multisectoral Regulatory Authority of Djibouti (ARMD), Mr. Abdi Ilmi Achkir, also participated in this inauguration. ARMD will be tasked with regulating the activities of the energy sector under its purview, ensuring that these investments yield the intended effects. Its mission will consist notably of establishing the necessary regulations for the development of the energy market, creating a favorable environment for increased investment in the sector and the diversification of the energy supply, as well as protecting the rights of consumers and operators alike.
This wind farm originates from a consortium of investors composed of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), which is the main project promoter; the investment company owned by the Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority; the Djibouti Sovereign Fund; the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank; the blended finance fund manager Climate Fund Managers (CFM); and Great Horn Investment Holding (GHIH).
The energy production from this farm will reduce CO2 emissions by 252,500 tonnes per year, with a total cost of 122 million US dollars. This project will also contribute to the country's industrialization and job creation in a context where a significant portion of the population lacks access to electricity and unemployment remains high, especially among the youth.
Finally, the Red Sea Power wind farm is part of the long-term strategy initiated by the President of the Republic, which aims to make Djibouti an emerging economy through the multiple reforms outlined in the Djibouti Vision 2035.
Source: ARMD
