Grace Ashiru
Libya has officially inaugurated its first solar power plant in the southeastern region of Kufra, located in the heart of the Sahara Desert, bordering Egypt, Sudan, and Chad. The project was completed in just eight months and is now fully operational, with an estimated annual electricity production of 2,182 MW.
The plant has a 1 MW capacity, which means it can generate up to one million watts of electricity under optimal conditions. This is sufficient to power approximately 500 to 1,000 households, depending on their consumption.
The solar power plant is expected to significantly reduce Libya’s reliance on diesel, cutting down its usage by an estimated 545,000 liters annually. Additionally, the project will help decrease carbon emissions by around 1,300 tons per year.
Libya, an oil-rich country, is seeking to meet its increasing energy demands through renewable energy, with solar energy identified as a critical resource. Authorities have recognized the immense potential of solar energy, and the country’s renewable energy strategy is aiming for a total capacity of 4 GW by 2035, which will account for 20% of its total energy mix.
With a population of about seven million people, Libya’s electricity demand has begun to exceed the capacity of its oil and gas-powered plants. As of early 2024, Libya boasts the largest proven oil reserves in Africa, with 48 billion barrels, which represent 41% of the continent’s total reserves, according to the US Energy Information Administration.
Despite its oil wealth, Libya is increasingly turning to renewable energy sources to diversify its energy portfolio, particularly solar power. The country’s energy demand is expected to reach 20 GW by the end of the year, highlighting the need for sustainable energy alternatives.
The Kufra solar project was developed through a collaboration between Infinity Libya and Touch Company, with the project managed and operated by trained Libyan engineers. The project aligns with Infinity Libya’s vision to build local capacity within the renewable energy sector, providing both environmental and economic benefits.
The Kufra solar station has not only had a positive environmental impact but has also contributed to local job creation and economic growth in the Kufra region. According to Infinity Libya, the completion of this plant marks a milestone for renewable energy development in the country. The company is now focused on expanding renewable energy across key sectors, including oil and gas, agriculture, and industry, to ensure that clean energy plays a pivotal role in shaping Libya’s future.
This solar project is considered a turning point for Libya’s renewable energy future, as it demonstrates the country’s commitment to reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and advancing sustainable energy solutions for the future.
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