World Bank boosts electricity supply across West Africa

The World Bank reports significant progress in strengthening electricity supply across West Africa through its regional power integration and electricity access program. This initiative is not only expanding cross-border power trade but also improving the financial health of utilities and bringing electricity to millions.

A key achievement is the construction of over 4,000 kilometers of high-voltage transmission lines. These lines interconnect the electricity grids of 15 West African countries under the West African Power Pool (WAPP). This infrastructure facilitates regional electricity trading, which has now reached approximately 8% of the total power generated, moving closer to the European Commission's benchmark of 10-12%. This increased trade has demonstrably reduced costs and improved the reliability of electricity supply across the member states.

The program has also directly impacted millions of people. Between 2019 and 2025, more than three million individuals in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Liberia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia gained access to electricity. These gains were achieved through transmission and distribution upgrades supported by the program. Furthermore, reforms implemented have bolstered the financial standing of utilities in several countries. For instance, Guinea-Bissau's utility transitioned from a monthly deficit of approximately $1 million to a positive balance, while The Gambia's NAWEC achieved profitability with about 42% in cost savings.

Progress continues towards establishing a fully functional regional electricity market. The WAPP and the ECOWAS Regional Electricity Regulatory Authority are actively synchronizing interconnected grids and expanding trade capabilities. A new day-ahead market is being introduced, allowing utilities to purchase electricity a day in advance at a lower cost, thereby reducing the incidence of power outages.

The World Bank highlighted that the program delivers more affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity. This, in turn, helps create jobs, empowers women, and mitigates climate impacts. Historically, West Africa faced significant electricity challenges, including low access rates, unreliable supply, aging infrastructure, and weak utility finances, with over half the population lacking power. The program's regional approach, supported by partners like the African Development Bank and the European Investment Bank, is systematically addressing these issues.

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The West Africa Regional Power Integration and Electricity Access Programme is delivering more affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity, helping create jobs, empowering women, and reducing climate impacts.