The Gambia
The Gambia at a glance
The Gambia, is the smallest country on mainland Africa, with a population of approximately 2.42 million (GBOS, 2024). The country is a long strip of land with the Gambia river running through it, all the way to an Atlantic coastline called “The Smiling Coast”, historically The Gambia’s economy has been supported by its export of Groundnuts (Peanuts) but now also relies on minerals, oils and other materials.
The Gambia’s economic growth is due to not only its exports but its access to affordable and reliable energy. While The Gambia contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, it is highly vulnerable to energy insecurity and climate change like many other small nations across the globe.
Directly threatening the country’s main agricultural export of peanuts along other adverse effects on the country. But The Gambia has set out the changes and challenges to develop the country’s energy landscape forth better. The country has aligned its energy ambitions with global climate goals through its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
Map highlighting The Gambia on the west coast of Sub-Saharan Africa
Image adapted from map created with mapchart.net
Overview of energy landscape
Over 90% of power generated by NAWEC relies on heavy fuel oil (HFO). Urban areas have higher electricity access, while rural communities remain underserved. Infrastructure faces overloading and high technical losses. The country has strong solar potential and some wind and biomass opportunities.
Energy sources and consumption
The Gambia’s energy mix is dominated by fossil fuels, with limited renewable penetration to date.
Electricity access and generation
Access is uneven, with rural areas lagging behind. Key projects include:
- Jambur Solar Power Station (2024): 23 MWp solar PV plant
- Nyamanarri Solar Mini-Grid (2022): 120 kWp plant serving ~6,500 residents
- Batokunku Wind Turbine (2009): First village in West Africa with a 150 kW turbine
- Power Up Gambia: Solar installations in healthcare facilities.
Renewable energy potential and key projects
Significant solar potential exists due to high irradiation. Community initiatives include solar streetlights and mini-grids under projects like REPGam and Mbolo Association.
Policies and regulatory framework
- National Energy Policy (2015–2020)
- Electricity Sector Roadmap (2017–2025; 2021–2040)
- National Renewable Energy Action Plan (2015–2030)
- National Development Plan (2023–2027)
- NDC Implementation Plan (2021–2030)
- Green mini-grid regulations (2023)
- Feed-in tariffs and net metering (2024)
- Energy Efficiency Bill (draft)
Targets and transition plans
By 2050:
- Net-zero emissions
- Electricity sector powered by 56% hydropower, 44% solar and wind
- Climate resilience integrated across sectors
Challenges
- Financial constraints and currency depreciation
- Weak operational health of NAWEC
- Infrastructure deficits in transmission and distribution
- Limited local technical expertise