Côte d'Ivoire is speeding up its march towards total electrification by 2030, with natural gas as its central pillar. In a joint note, the Italian company Eni and Petroci, Côte d'Ivoire's state-owned hydrocarbons company, confirmed a "significant increase" in gas supplies, driven by the second phase of the Baleine field. This offshore field, which is now delivering 70 million cubic feet per day (MMcfd), strengthens the country's energy security and supports its objective of connecting 100% of its population to electricity, up from 64% in 2023.
Launched in December 2024, phase 2 of Baleine has tripled the field's initial production from 20,000 barrels per day (bpd) and 25 Mcfd of gas to 60,000 bpd and 70 Mcfd. This leap meets growing local demand, while 69% of Côte d'Ivoire's electricity capacity relies on thermal power stations fuelled by gas, mainly supplied by Foxtrot International. Baleine, whose production is now aligned with national needs, is becoming a key lever for reducing dependence on imports and stabilising supply.
Eni and Petroci are planning a new stage with phase 3, currently under study. By the end of 2025, a final investment decision could unlock a capacity of 150,000 bpd and 200 Mcfd of gas, making Baleine one of the region's flagship projects. This ramp-up would guarantee an abundant resource for power stations, essential for the expansion of the grid.
Although gas currently dominates the energy mix, Côte d'Ivoire is not relying entirely on fossil fuels. According to the National Energy Pact of January 2025, renewables - hydro, solar and biomass - should account for 45% of the energy mix by 2030. This diversification aims to connect an additional 17 million people to the grid, closing the gap that still separates 36% of the population from access to electricity.
With sustained demographic and economic growth, Côte d'Ivoire has to meet the challenge of constantly rising energy demand. By increasing the availability of gas, Baleine offers an immediate and reliable solution, while leaving the door open for a gradual transition to greener sources. "This synergy between gas and renewables is at the heart of our strategy for 2030," said a Petroci representative, underlining the country's commitment to accessible and sustainable energy.
By relying on Baleine and a balanced mix, Côte d'Ivoire is positioning itself as a model for electrification in West Africa, combining pragmatism with a long-term vision to achieve its ambitious target by the end of the decade.
