In November 2024, Gabon inaugurated its first utility-scale photovoltaic plant on 251 hectares at Ayémé Plaine, just 30 km northeast of Libreville.
Developed and operated by Solen SA Gabon under a 25-year PPA with SEEG, the plant began with 11 MW of capacity. Phase one expansion is underway to reach 30 MW, complete with a 15-hour battery energy storage system to stabilize output, and ambitions extend to 120 MW across two 60-MW phases.
This strategic pivot toward decentralized, clean power signals Gabon’s commitment to climate goals and energy diversification. By 2030, the nation aims for 80 % renewable electricity; Ayémé’s current and planned output alone will offset 152,000 t CO₂ annually from phase one operations and create around 150 direct jobs, while stimulating further local economic activity.
Located 30 km from the capital, the site leverages high solar irradiance and existing grid infrastructure. The integrated 15-hour storage system will smooth variable output and bolster grid stability, addressing peak demand and mitigating intermittency. Early environmental assessments highlighted minimal land-use conflicts and community engagement has created local procurement and training opportunities.
As the plant scales, Ayémé will directly power Libreville’s urban center and feed excess into regional networks—setting a precedent for future solar initiatives. For me, Ayémé Solar demonstrates that combining PV and storage at utility scale can reliably meet urban energy needs, drive decarbonization, and showcase sustainable infrastructure development in Gabon.
Steven OBAME
