The Nachtigal hydroelectric facility achieved a significant milestone on May 10th by synchronizing its first turbine unit with Cameroon’s Southern Interconnected Grid. This integration marks the initial delivery of megawatt-hours of electricity from the plant into the national power system.
A ceremony held in the plant’s control room celebrated this achievement, with Cameroon’s Minister of Energy and Water Resources initiating the synchronization. The event was attended by the Ministers of Finance and Economy, the Spanish Ambassador, energy sector representatives, and local authorities.
“The operation follows conclusive works and tests, certified by appointed experts,” stated the Energy Minister regarding the successful connection of Unit No. 1 to the grid.
The Nachtigal hydroelectric plant’s first turbine is set for official commissioning in the coming weeks. The facility’s remaining six turbine units will be brought online gradually over the next several months, aiming for full 420MW capacity by December 2024.
When fully operational, the $1.3 billion Nachtigal plant, located on the Sanaga River, is expected to provide nearly 30% of Cameroon’s electricity needs through renewable hydropower.
As of the end of April, the Nachtigal Hydroelectric Power Company (NHPC), which oversees the construction, reported that the project had reached 94% completion.
