The Gambia's Energy Landscape
NAWEC operates a diversified power generation portfolio combining domestic thermal plants, regional power imports through the OMVG interconnection, and an expanding renewable energy programme. This mix is designed to ensure reliable supply while progressively reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.
With current installed capacity exceeding 100 MW and access to 150 MW of import capacity via the OMVG interconnection, NAWEC is positioned to meet growing demand while transitioning towards a cleaner energy future.
Thermal Generation
Primary SourceHeavy fuel oil (HFO) and light fuel oil (LFO) power plants form the backbone of NAWEC's domestic generation capacity, providing baseload power across the country.
Kotu Power Station
Located in the Greater Banjul Area, Kotu is one of NAWEC's longest-serving generation facilities. The station houses multiple HFO and LFO generating sets providing critical supply to the capital region.
Brikama Power Station
A major generation hub serving the West Coast Region and Greater Banjul Area. Brikama hosts newer, more efficient generating units and serves as a key node in the national grid.
Provincial Stations
Distributed generation facilities in Basse, Farafenni, Soma, Bansang, and other regional centres provide localised supply to provincial towns and surrounding communities.
Power Imports (OMVG)
Regional IntegrationThe Organisation pour la Mise en Valeur du fleuve Gambie (OMVG) interconnection is a transformative infrastructure project enabling cross-border power trade and significantly enhancing The Gambia's energy security.
- 225kV Transmission Line — Kaolack (Senegal) to Soma and Brikama substations in The Gambia, with the 225kV GERMP-financed Jabang Substation as a key interconnection point
- SENELEC Power Purchase Agreement — 50 MW agreement with Senegal's national utility for firm power supply
- West African Power Pool (WAPP) — Part of the broader regional integration framework for electricity trade across West Africa
- Kaleta & Sambangalou Hydro — Future access to hydroelectric generation from OMVG member state dams on the Gambia River
Renewable Energy
Growing PortfolioNAWEC is committed to expanding its renewable energy capacity as part of the national strategy to diversify the energy mix, reduce carbon emissions, and achieve long-term energy sustainability.
Solar PV Development
Grid-scale solar photovoltaic projects under development and planning, leveraging The Gambia's excellent solar irradiation levels averaging over 2,000 hours of sunshine per year.
IPP Partnerships
Independent Power Producer frameworks attracting private investment in renewable generation, with structured power purchase agreements ensuring grid integration.
Solar Mini-Grids
Decentralised solar-powered mini-grid solutions providing electricity to off-grid rural communities, accelerating universal access goals.
Energy Storage
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) under consideration to stabilise renewable energy integration and provide peak demand support.
NAWEC
National Water & Electricity Company — sole vertically integrated utility responsible for generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity in The Gambia.
PURA
Public Utilities Regulatory Authority — independent regulator overseeing tariff setting, service standards, and licensing in the electricity, water, and telecommunications sectors.
Ministry of Energy
Government ministry responsible for energy policy, strategy, and coordinating development partner support for the sector's expansion and reform.
OMVG
Organisation pour la Mise en Valeur du fleuve Gambie — regional body coordinating the cross-border interconnection and hydroelectric development on the Gambia River basin.
Interested in Investing in The Gambia's Energy Sector?
NAWEC welcomes partnerships with Independent Power Producers, development finance institutions, and technology providers to accelerate The Gambia's energy transition.