The World Bank has approved a significant investment program aimed at improving regional power system integration and energy security in West Africa. The $1.6 billion initiative, known as the West Africa Regional Electricity Market Program (WA-REMP), is supported by the International Development Association (IDA) and seeks to address electricity needs for households, industries, medium-sized companies, and power sector institutions across the region.
Franz Drees-Gross, World Bank Regional Infrastructure Director for Western and Central Africa, stated that "WA-REMP is a transformative initiative that marks a new stage in the World Bank’s commitment to strengthening regional power system integration in West Africa." He highlighted its alignment with Mission 300 (M300), which aims to provide electricity access to 300 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
The first phase of WA-REMP will focus on implementing the Ghana-Côte d’Ivoire Interconnection project. This project is designed to enhance power transmission capabilities and facilitate electricity trade between these two countries while also strengthening connections with other regional participants. Additionally, it will support Mauritania's Transmission Corridor Project to expand electricity access in underserved areas, reinforce the national grid, develop renewable energy capacity, encourage private sector investment, and enable electricity exports from Mauritania to the West African Power Pool (WAPP).
This program promises benefits across West Africa by fostering economic growth and job creation through regional collaboration. It underscores the World Bank Group’s dedication to sustainable development and energy security within the region. By enhancing regional power system integration, WA-REMP aims to contribute towards a more resilient and sustainable energy future.