The Nachtigal hydroelectric power station: an ambitious project to meet Cameroon’s energy needs
In the heart of the Yaoundé region, on the banks of the Sanaga River, stands an imposing construction which marks a turning point in the energy history of Cameroon. The Nachtigal hydroelectric plant, scheduled to be commissioned in September 2024, promises to be the long-awaited solution to meet part of the country’s electricity needs.
With a power of 420 megawatts, the Nachtigal power plant will cover around 30% of the national electricity demand. An impressive figure which testifies to the importance of this project and its impact on the economy and the well-being of Cameroonians.
To successfully complete this colossal project, different stakeholders worked hand in hand. The Nachtigal project is in fact the result of a large-scale public-private partnership, with 76% of the financing coming from loans taken out from international development institutions and banks. This collaboration between local actors and foreign partners demonstrates the trust and constructive dialogue that exist between Cameroon and the international community.
But the Nachtigal project is not limited to its financial dimension. It is also an opportunity to transfer skills and technologies. By promoting the use of local resources for the construction of the power plant, the project allows for real economic and technological development on Cameroonian territory. This approach results in a reduction in logistics costs, but also in an enhancement of local knowledge and know-how.
However, the road to completing this project has not been without pitfalls. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the site, leading to a slowdown in work and a reduction in the number of employees. In addition, the climate emergency and environmental issues were also taken into account in the design of the hydroelectric plant. Measures have been taken to minimize the impact on the local ecosystem and ensure sustainable management of natural resources.
In short, the Nachtigal hydroelectric plant embodies both the challenges and opportunities that Cameroon faces in its quest for energy autonomy. This ambitious project demonstrates the country’s ability to engage in fruitful international partnerships, while promoting its local resources and promoting sustainable development. Once in service, the plant will be a real engine of economic growth and social progress for Cameroon.