Ivorian energy plans could make it a regional hub

Significance

In November, several companies, led by oil major Total, signed a shareholders’ agreement for a regasification terminal in Abidjan to import gas for new and existing power schemes. If initial project development continues at the current speed, it could become sub-Saharan Africa’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) import scheme, establishing Ivory Coast as a regional energy player.

Impacts

• A more reliable power supply -- helped by a stable currency pegged to the euro -- will increase Ivory Coast’s attractiveness to investors.
• Greater regional trust could emerge through power sharing and electricity connections.
• Tackling increasing energy demand could prove to be Ouattara’s flagship legacy.