UAE-backed $23 million project expands Comoros’ renewable energy capacity by 20MW

Comoros has expanded its renewable energy capacity with the inauguration of three solar power plants backed by the UAE, adding 20MW to the country’s electricity network and reducing its reliance on diesel-fired generation.

The facilities, inaugurated by Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of the Comoros, were financed by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), implemented by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar), and managed by Global South Utilities (GSU).

With approximately $23 million in financing from ADFD, the project comprises three solar photovoltaic plants: 12.86MW on Grande Comore, 4.05MW on Anjouan, and 3.1MW on Mohéli.

The development also includes battery energy storage systems with a combined capacity of 16 MWh and a combined power output of 8MW across Grande Comore and Anjouan. Around 30 kilometers of 20-kilovolt medium-voltage overhead transmission lines have also been installed.

Technical studies estimate that the facilities will generate approximately 33.75 GWh of clean electricity annually, enough to power around 17,500 households. The project is also expected to avoid approximately 20,900 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.

The project comes as Comoros faces persistent challenges with its electricity supply. Imported diesel accounted for 91% of the country’s energy mix in 2024, while electricity demand reached 254 GWh compared with actual generation of 150 GWh. The country recorded around 3,000 power outages during the year.

The new solar facilities are expected to supply electricity equivalent to 13.3% of total demand and 22.5% of actual generation, helping diversify the country’s power mix, reduce exposure to imported fuel costs, and improve electricity reliability.

UAE officials said the project reflects the two countries’ broader development partnership, while ADFD and Masdar highlighted its potential to support energy resilience, local capabilities and economic development.

Masdar CEO Mohamed Al Ramahi said the project demonstrates how solar power and energy storage can support Comoros’ energy security and longer-term socioeconomic development.