Global South Utilities (GSU), a UAE-based resources investment firm, has broken ground on a 50-megawatt solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in Sakaï, Central African Republic (CAR). The project marks a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to expand energy access and transition toward clean, sustainable power sources.
Powering Communities, Cutting Emissions
Once completed, the solar facility will generate enough electricity to power more than 300,000 households across the Central African Republic. In addition to boosting access to affordable energy, the project is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 50,000 tonnes annually.
To ensure reliability and grid stability, the project will also integrate a 10 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system (BESS). The storage solution will enable round-the-clock supply, minimizing disruptions and ensuring that renewable energy is available even during periods of low sunlight.
A Landmark Ceremony
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, alongside Pascal Bida Koyagbele, Minister of State for Strategic Investments and Major Work, senior government officials, and executives from GSU.
Speaking at the event, Ali Alshimmari, Managing Director and CEO of GSU, emphasized the project’s importance for CAR’s development:
“For the Central African Republic, this project will play a key role in expanding energy access to communities across the country. It represents another milestone in our commitment to delivering clean, scalable energy solutions in places that others may see as difficult – but which we view as gateways to opportunity and sustainable growth.”
Strengthening UAE–CAR Ties
The initiative comes on the heels of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between the UAE and CAR in March 2025. The agreement aims to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and infrastructure development, laying the groundwork for projects like the Sakaï solar plant.
By spearheading renewable energy investments in CAR, the UAE is reinforcing its role as a strategic partner in the Global South, providing both financing and technical expertise to accelerate sustainable growth.
Part of a Growing African Renewable Portfolio
For GSU, the Sakaï project is the latest addition to its expanding renewable energy portfolio across Africa. The company has positioned itself as a key player in bringing scalable, climate-friendly energy solutions to emerging economies where access to reliable power remains limited.
The project also aligns with broader UAE climate commitments, particularly in the run-up to regional and international initiatives aimed at supporting decarbonization and sustainable development.
Driving Energy Transition in the Global South
The Central African Republic faces significant energy challenges, with electrification rates among the lowest in the world. Projects like the Sakaï solar plant are critical to bridging this gap, providing not only improved access but also fostering economic development, job creation, and long-term sustainability.
The integration of solar PV with battery storage represents a model that can be replicated across other African nations, where energy demand is growing and traditional fossil-fuel-based power is both costly and environmentally damaging.
Looking Ahead
As construction moves forward, the Sakaï solar project is expected to become a flagship renewable initiative in CAR and a demonstration of how international partnerships can accelerate the energy transition in developing economies.
By investing in regions often overlooked by global financiers, Global South Utilities is signaling that the Global South’s renewable potential is vast and untapped. For both CAR and the UAE, the project symbolizes not only a step toward cleaner energy but also a deepening partnership built on sustainability, innovation, and shared growth.
