By: Utilities Middle East

Abu Dhabi-based Global South Utilities (GSU) has inaugurated a 50MW solar photovoltaic project in Sakaï, described as the largest infrastructure project in the Central African Republic’s history.

The facility increases the country’s electricity generation capacity by more than 60%, marking a significant expansion of its national power system.

The project combines a 50MW solar PV plant with a 15MWh battery energy storage system, supporting grid stability while expanding access to reliable and lower-carbon electricity.

Built using more than 80,000 solar panels and 156 inverters, the project was completed in 10 months and recorded 448,880 safe man-hours during construction.

GSU said the facility is expected to provide electricity to more than 300,000 households while avoiding more than 50,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.

Ali Alshimmari, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Global South Utilities, said the project demonstrated the importance of long-term partnerships and disciplined delivery.

“It is a project of historic national importance that will help shape the future of the Central African Republic,” Alshimmari said.

“It reflects the power of partnership, the importance of keeping commitments, delivered in 10 months, and a shared belief in a better future for the Central African Republic.”

The additional power capacity is expected to support wider economic development by improving electricity availability for healthcare, education, public services, businesses and industrial users.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by H.E. Faustin-Archange Touadéra, President of the Central African Republic, alongside senior government officials, GSU representatives and project partners.

Alshimmari also highlighted the role of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development in supporting the project through concessional financing.

“We thank the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, whose concessional financing was instrumental in enabling the delivery of this project,” he said.

“For GSU, this is another step in building enduring partnerships across Africa and contributing to the continent’s long-term economic and social development.”

The Sakaï project follows GSU’s solar development in Chad and adds to the company’s growing international portfolio.

GSU now has projects and partnerships across Africa, Central Asia and South America as it expands its presence through large-scale energy infrastructure.