A new 250-megawatt gas power plant is set to become operational in Gandon, Saint-Louis region, Senegal.

The plant, initially designed to produce 250 megawatts, has the potential to expand to 500 megawatts based on central government directives. It will be supplied with gas through a pipeline managed by the Senegal Gas Network (RGS), in partnership with PETROSEN, SENELEC, and FONSIS.

The regional governor Alioune Badara Sambe highlighted Senegal’s impending status as a gas-producing nation with the imminent exploitation of the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) gas field, shared with Mauritania.

The committee meeting reviewed the environmental and social impact study of the pipeline connecting the GTA hub to the Gandon plant. Regional authorities and RGS representatives reaffirmed their commitment to integrating natural gas into Senegal’s energy development.

The 400-kilometre pipeline will extend from Saint-Louis to Dakar and Mbour. The first phase includes laying a 45-kilometre offshore section and a 40-kilometre onshore section to serve the Gandon plant.

Gas production at GTA is expected to begin by the end of the year, aiming to supply part of the gas for local electricity production. The project is set for completion within 12 to 15 months, with the Gandon plant expected to begin operations by the first quarter of 2026, contingent on the pipeline's completion by the end of 2025.