Côte d’Ivoire is on the cusp of a significant energy milestone as the Songon Combined Cycle Thermal Power Plant is expected to reach financial close this year. This large-scale gas-to-power project, with a substantial capacity of 372 MW, represents a crucial step in the nation’s strategy to bolster its energy infrastructure and meet growing electricity demand.
Recent reports indicate that financial agreements for the project were signed in June 2026, paving the way for its realization.
The Songon Power Plant is a substantial undertaking, with an estimated investment of CFA 423 billion, equivalent to approximately $751-761 million. This considerable financial backing underscores the project’s importance and the confidence of international investors in Côte d’Ivoire’s energy sector.
The plant is strategically located in Songon, a key area near the economic hub of Abidjan, positioning it to effectively serve a major population and industrial center.
Key players in this ambitious project include Songon Energies, the primary developer, alongside significant financial and advisory support from institutions such as BOAD (Banque Ouest Africaine de Développement) and Asafo & Co.
The OPEC Fund also agreed to provide a loan for the project in September 2025, further solidifying its financial foundation.
The journey to this financial close has been protracted, with the project experiencing delays since its inception in 2015. Initially, the development involved Endeavor Energy and Starenergie 2073.
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However, the project is now moving forward under the stewardship of Songon Energies, indicating a renewed impetus and a clear path towards completion. The successful financial close is expected to unlock the necessary capital to accelerate construction and bring the plant online, contributing significantly to Côte d’Ivoire’s energy mix.
This development is particularly noteworthy as Côte d’Ivoire aims to strengthen its position as a regional energy hub. The country has been actively investing in its power sector, including both thermal and renewable energy sources, to ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply for its citizens and industries.
The Songon plant, once operational, will play a vital role in providing baseload power, complementing the nation’s existing and planned renewable energy projects [2].
The long-term impact of the Songon Power Plant extends beyond mere electricity generation. It is anticipated to create numerous employment opportunities during its construction and operational phases, contributing to local economic development.
Furthermore, a stable power supply is a fundamental prerequisite for industrial growth and improved living standards, making this project a cornerstone of Côte d’Ivoire’s broader socio-economic development agenda. The successful financial close marks a pivotal moment, signaling the commitment of both national and international stakeholders to advancing West Africa’s energy landscape.
