The West african Electricity Trading System (WAPP) was created 25 years ago by ECOWAS. Objective: to create a common electricity market to allow large electricity producers to supply less wealthy states. Although they still produce little electricity (91 TWH in 2023), the 14 countries involved are interconnected and now form a single electricity grid.
In West Africa, around twenty interconnections are currently operational: 5,700 km of high voltage lines from 225,000 to 330,000 volts, put into service between 2007 and 2023. With the aim of lowering prices, but not only: This allows for a much larger market for investors, underlines Mamadou alpha Sylla, Guinean director of the WAPP (West African Power Pool or West African Electric Power Exchange System). But also to have a much more robust and resilient network and access to much more competitive electricity. This has an impact on our economies, access to reliable and affordable energy is an essential factor for the economic development of our States ».
23,000 km of lines in 2033?
Interconnections commissioned late last year include those of the Gambia River Development Institution (OMVG). The four member states – Guinea, Senegal, Gambia and Bissau – are now connected. But it had an unexpected effect. In Senegal’s Tambacounda region, demand for electricity has increased much more than initially expected, a sign of a more stable energy supply on the electricity grid and consequently less use of generators, according to one of the project leaders.
Another progress according to the expert: Guinea-Bissau is no longer dependent on sole Metin Bey ship, the floating thermoelectric power plant of the Turkish Karpowership groupknown to be expensive and generate CO2 emissions.
Under its 2019-2033 programme, WAPP hopes to build a total of 23,000 kilometers of high-voltage lines to make the grid more reliable, at an estimated cost of US$10 billion. To do this, the agency relies on funding from international donors, such as the World Bank, the African development Bank and the French Development Agency.
Diplomatic divisions and insecurity
Several interconnections planned or soon to be put into service cross the Sahel, such as the “Northern Ridge”, from Nigeria to Burkina Faso via Niger; the “trans-sahelian ridge” which will eventually connect Mauritania to Chad; the Ghana – Burkina Faso - Mali interconnection or the Ivory Coast – Burkina interconnection. But according to electricity trading system experts, the currently complex relations between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States created by the authorities of Bamako, Niamey and Ouagadougou constitute a potential obstacle to their development. Added to this is the insecurity in the area. “ The assigned staff the installation they are safe and do not fall victim to terrorists », observes Serge Dioman, specialist in the energy sector. it is difficult for WAPP to evolve properly when we are in this situation. »
Produce more current
In addition to interconnections, WAPP’s other priority is electricity generation. The installed capacity in the area is currently 27 gigawatts and 48% is located in Nigeria. In the medium term, the agency therefore aims to build around forty power plants, most of them solar, wind or hydroelectric parks. A 26 billion dollar project which, on paper, would allow West Africa to benefit from an additional 16 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2033.
What are the key challenges facing the West African Electricity Trading System (WAPP) in achieving its goals?
Interview: The Future of Energy in West Africa
Editor: Welcome to Time.news, where we delve into the most pressing issues of our time. Today, we’re thrilled to have Dr. Amadou Diallo, an expert in renewable energy and regional trade systems, join us to discuss the West African Electricity Trading system, or WAPP. Dr. Diallo, thank you for being here.
Dr. Diallo: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such a vital topic.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. the WAPP was established with the aim of fostering collaboration among West African countries on electricity. Can you explain what motivated the creation of this system and how it operates?
Dr. Diallo: Absolutely. The WAPP was established to enhance regional electricity trade and ensure the sustainability of energy resources across West Africa. One of the primary motivations was the frequent energy shortages that manny countries faced individually. By collaborating and pooling resources, countries can efficiently manage electricity supply and demand. The system essentially allows nations to trade electricity based on their generation capabilities and needs, optimizing the overall energy availability in the region.
Editor: Captivating! How does WAPP benefit individual member countries? Are there any specific examples you can share?
Dr. Diallo: Yes, certainly.Member countries can export surplus power to neighboring nations, wich allows them to generate revenue while helping to stabilize the electricity supply in regions that might potentially be experiencing shortages. Such as, countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana have historically been able to export electricity to their neighbors during peak demand periods, thereby improving regional energy security and reliability.
Editor: That’s notable! In terms of infrastructure, what challenges does the WAPP face in achieving its goals?
Dr. Diallo: The infrastructure deficit is one of the biggest challenges. Many member states still lack the necessary grid connectivity and interdependence to efficiently trade electricity. Additionally,there are regulatory frameworks that need harmonization across different nations to promote seamless transactions. Investing in infrastructure and ensuring that there are sufficient grid interconnections will be critical for the prosperous implementation of the WAPP.
Editor: How about the role of renewable energy in this system? Is there a push towards integrating more lasting resources within the WAPP framework?
Dr. diallo: Definitely! Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, are a key focus area for WAPP. Many West African countries are blessed with abundant renewable resources, and integrating these into the electricity mix can help diversify energy sources, reduce costs, and combat climate change. Additionally, renewable energy projects can stimulate economic growth by creating jobs and attracting investment, setting a foundation for sustainable advancement in the region.
Editor: What do you see as the future of the WAPP? Are there any upcoming developments or collaborations that have you excited?
Dr. Diallo: The future of WAPP looks promising. There is a growing recognition among West African leaders of the need to collaborate on energy issues, leading to increased investment in infrastructure projects and renewable energy initiatives.Initiatives like the “Power Pools” project are already underway, which aim to enhance cross-border electricity trade. As investment in smart grid technologies and renewable energy sources accelerates, I believe we will see a more integrated and resilient energy network in West Africa.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Diallo, for sharing your insights on the WAPP. It’s clear that this system has the potential not only to improve energy access in West Africa but also to serve as a blueprint for regional cooperation in addressing energy challenges.
Dr. diallo: Thank you for having me. I’m excited about the possibilities ahead for sustainable energy in West Africa and the vital role WAPP can play in this transformation.
Editor: We appreciate your time and expertise. Until next time, stay tuned for our next discussion on global developments shaping our world.
This interview format is intended to engage the audience with relevant details while allowing the expert to share insights on the topic effectively.