A structured sector that exports electricity in the region: the key points for understanding the Ivorian market.
Côte d’Ivoire has one of the most structured power sectors in the region. It exports electricity to several neighbouring countries and has one of the highest access rates in West Africa. This brief summarises the key points.
The sector in brief
- Generation: a mix based on gas and hydropower, with solar development under way
- Transmission and exports: interconnections with Ghana, Burkina Faso, Mali, Togo and Benin
- Distribution: a private concessionaire under contract with the State
- Regulation: a sector authority and a public procurement and competition regulator
The main challenges
Demand is growing fast, driven by urbanisation and industrialisation. The country is seeking to diversify its mix and reduce its dependence on gas, while consolidating its position as a regional exporter. Electrifying isolated rural areas and the reliability of distribution remain priorities.
The opportunities
- Utility-scale solar and self-generation for industry
- Rural electrification through grid extension and decentralised solutions in the north and west
- Interconnections to secure exchanges with the regional WAPP market
- Energy efficiency and storage in businesses
Points to watch for investors
The framework is more mature than elsewhere, but competition between projects is stronger. Award timelines, offtake conditions and grid evacuation capacity must be checked site by site.
In a structured market, quality and preparation make the difference.
Going further
The Abidjan 2025 edition of the Summit produced recommendations on electricity supply. They are available in the Intelligence section.
