By: Utilities Middle east

UAE-based Global South Utilities (GSU), a resources investment company, has officially begun construction of a 50-megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in Sakaï, Central African Republic (CAR), marking a major advance in the country’s clean energy transition and access to electricity, news agency Zawya has reported.

The project is set to provide electricity to more than 300,000 households while offsetting over 50,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year. It will feature a 10 megawatt-hour Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to enhance grid stability and ensure continuous power supply.

Beyond improving energy availability, Zawya explains that the initiative is expected to generate new employment opportunities in the renewable sector, supporting local skills development and inclusive economic growth.

The ground-breaking ceremony was attended by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra of CAR, Pascal Bida Koyagbele, Minister of State for Strategic Investments and Major Works, senior government officials, and GSU leadership.

“For the Central African Republic, this project will play a key role in expanding energy access to communities across the country,” said Ali Alshimmari, Managing Director and CEO of GSU, according to Zawya.

“It represents another milestone in our commitment to delivering clean, scalable energy solutions in places often seen as challenging, but which we view as gateways to opportunity and sustainable growth.”

The Sakaï solar plant follows the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between the UAE and CAR in March 2025, which aims to strengthen bilateral trade and investment across strategic sectors.

This development forms part of GSU’s expanding portfolio of clean energy projects across Africa, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to climate-friendly investments and practical economic partnerships with countries in the Global South.