Volobe Hydropower Plant

Madagascar

Africa50-Project Development

Volobe is a 120 MW hydropower plant under construction on the Ivondro river, 40 kilometres from Toamasina, Madagascar. It will be operated under a 35-year concession. The project includes the construction of a transmission line, refurbishment of the access road, and infrastructure for the neighbouring villages.

€100m

estimated savings per year for the national utility

+20%

expected increase in country’s electricity generation capacity

1000

Direct jobs during construction phase

Africa50's Role

Africa50 acquired 25% equity stake in Compagnie Générale d’Hydroélectricité de Volobe (CGHV), the project manager.

Partners

The shareholding of CGHV is comprised of Africa50, Jovena (Axian Group), SN Power and Colas.

Development Impact

Should provide reliable and affordable baseload electricity to over two million people.
Should increase the country’s electricity generation capacity by approximately 20%.
Should reduce the cost of electricity to the utility by 10-30%.
Could save the state-owned utility approximately €100 million.
The project is expected to create up to 1,000 direct jobs during construction

Environment

Should contribute to the country’s transition to renewables.
Project is run-of-river and, therefore, has limited negative environmental impact.
No species on critical lists on the sites.
Few households (275) impacted.
80% acceptance project rate by the local communities