By: Energy capital & power

Amid efforts to unlock its vast untapped energy and mineral resources, Guinea-Bissau has seen a rise in international engagement, regulatory reforms and integration into regional energy networks. These developments are designed to create a conducive environment for private investment, enhance energy reliability and drive sustainable growth. With increasing stability and expanding infrastructure, Guinea-Bissau presents emerging opportunities for investors seeking to participate in West Africa’s evolving energy and mining sectors.

Energy and Mineral Development

Guinea-Bissau recently completed a critical milestone by connecting to the sub-regional power grid shared with Senegal, The Gambia and Guinea-Conakry, significantly enhancing the stability and reliability of electricity supply to its capital. This integration, facilitated by the OMVG Interconnection Project, leverages the 240 MW Kaléta hydroelectric power plant in Guinea-Conakry, enabling Guinea-Bissau to receive up to 80 MW in reliable supply.

In the offshore oil space, offshore explorer Apus Energy drilled the Atum-1X well in late 2024, targeting an estimated 314 million barrels of recoverable crude near the Senegalese maritime border. Onshore, international finance institution the World Bank approved $35 million in funding in mid-2024 to advance solar generation, strengthen the national grid and increase electricity access – which currently sits below 35%. Rural microgrid projects, such as the solar-diesel hybrid system in Bambadinca, are already operational.

Guinea-Bissau also holds substantial mineral potential, including bauxite near Boé and phosphate deposits in Farim. Last year, Azerbaijani state-owned miner AzerGold formalized a cooperation agreement with the government to conduct advanced geological mapping and initiate gold exploration activities.

Regulatory Reforms and Regional Integration

Ongoing reforms to state utility Electricidade e Águas da Guiné-Bissau – supported by international finance institutions the International Monetary Fund and World Bank – include the rollout of prepaid meters, revenue collection improvements and alignment with the Organization for the Harmonization of Business Law in Africa standards. These efforts aim to stabilize operations and attract private sector participation in generation and distribution.

Regionally, Guinea-Bissau is expanding its role in West Africa’s energy infrastructure. Additional integration into the West African Power Pool is expected to enhance energy reliability and lower costs. Guinea-Bissau is also positioned as a potential transit country for the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline, which would further anchor its role in regional energy corridors.

Guinea-Bissau’s recent progress in energy and mining development will be a key focus at the upcoming MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition, running from December 9-10 in Dakar. Taking place under the theme, Energy, Petroleum and Mining in Africa: Synergy for Inclusive Economic Development, the event will highlight opportunities arising from offshore oil exploration, renewable energy, mineral resource development and ongoing reforms aimed at attracting private investment and strengthening regional energy infrastructure.

Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region’s oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.msgbcoilgasandpower.com