Madagascar’s government recently signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) and concession agreement with JIRAMA and CGHV (Compagnie Générale d’Hydroélectricité de Volobe) for the construction of a new 120 MW hydroelectric project on the Volobe River.

This signing, which is also an important step in Madagascar’s energy and economic development plan, is both a priority for the government of the Republic of Madagascar and an important step in the country’s transition to cleaner renewable energy.

This project will help the government to achieve a number of its specific goals, including the next step in its desire to transition to cleaner energy sources, a reduction in the unit cost of electricity, an increase in the number of people who have access to electricity, additional job opportunities, and to enhance key skills such as innovation and engineering.

As a designated project in Madagascar’s Low-Cost Development Plan (LCDP) launched in November 2018 and revised in 2022, Volobe Amont is a top-priority project for the country and will have a positive and sustainable impact both nationally and at the regional level for local communities.

Other benefits from the project include the repair of the 26 km main road that is the area’s primary access, and the installation of a 150-meter bridge across the Ivondro River, infrastructural improvements for the neighbouring villages, and an improvement in the country’s balance of payments by reducing fuel imports. The project, which will produce 750 GWh of energy from renewable resources per year, is due for completion in 2028.