"Global South Utilities" The UAE supplies 28,000 homes with clean energy in Somaliland and launches an initiative "Green Berbera"

ABU DHABI, 20th February, 2018 (WAM) – The UAE’s Global South Utilities, a subsidiary of Resources Investments in Abu Dhabi, announced the operation of a grid-connected solar photovoltaic power plant with a capacity of 5 megawatts in Berbera, while launching the “Green Berbera” vision, an initiative aimed at transforming the electricity system from relying on diesel to a system for generating renewable energy supported by battery energy storage systems. This consolidates the city of Berbera’s position as a model center for the transition to renewable energy in the Horn of Africa.

The new solar power plant, supported by 11.2 kilometers of 33 kV power transmission lines and associated substations, forms a cornerstone of the “Green Berbera” vision.

The project directly supports Somaliland’s national electricity and energy sector strategy, which aims to expand the scope of providing a stable and reliable source of electricity, reduce dependence on imported diesel fuel, and transition to a system that ensures clean, sustainable energy at a better cost.

The Berbera Solar Power Plant is designed to generate approximately 10,000 megawatt-hours of clean electricity annually, with the capacity to provide energy to approximately 28,000 homes annually, significantly enhancing the availability of reliable electricity for the benefiting residents, businesses and institutions in the city.

By eliminating diesel power generation, the project will contribute to eliminating approximately 6,890 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, which will have a significant climate impact in addition to improving energy security and reducing fuel costs.

Prior to the inauguration ceremony of the Berbera station, Ali Al-Shammari, Managing Director and CEO of Global South Utilities, joined the Board of Directors meeting of the Berbera Electricity Company, in his capacity as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, to review the company’s plan to expand in the field of renewable energy and the next stages.

Al-Shammari also announced the launch of the “Green Berbera” vision as a regulatory framework to transform the electricity system in Berbera from reliance on diesel to a utility system powered by renewable energy supported by solar photovoltaic systems and battery energy storage systems.

The “Green Berbera” project represents a structural shift in how electricity is generated and distributed across the city, using solar photovoltaic energy as the main source of power generation, as well as battery storage, to enhance grid stability and enable energy conversion, so that diesel power generation is a strategic backup measure rather than a primary source of supply.

Through its 45% stake in Berbera Electricity Company, the only utility company serving the city of Berbera, Global South Utilities is guiding this transformation in close coordination with local stakeholders. Berbera Electricity Company currently operates solar power plants with a capacity of 20.38 megawatts along with 2 megawatt-hours of battery storage capacity, and renewable energy capacity is expected to double by 2027.

As a strategic port, Berbera plays a pivotal role in Somaliland’s trade and logistics system. Through its “Green Berbera” vision, the city seeks to become a leading hub for the renewable energy transition in East Africa, linking clean energy infrastructure with long-term economic resilience.

Ali Al-Shammari, Managing Director and CEO of Global South Utilities, Vice President of Berbera Electricity Company, said: “The ‘Green Berbera’ vision not only makes the city a model for a clean energy system, but also makes it the most competitive regional economic center in the Horn of Africa. Reliable, cost-effective energy is a key factor for trade, logistics and industrial growth.”

“By shifting from reliance on diesel to a utility model powered by solar and batteries, Berbera stands out as a practical example of how coastal cities in East Africa can modernize energy systems while enhancing economic resilience,” he added.

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