Mauritania opts for PPP for 550 MW Gas-to-Power project

At the Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum in Paris, Mauritania's Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Mohamed Ould Khaled, unveiled an ambitious energy strategy aimed at transforming Mauritania into a continental leader in clean energy production. Centred on public-private partnerships (PPPs), the exploitation of domestic gas and the development of green hydrogen, this vision is based on the country's abundant natural resources and a modernised regulatory framework.

The Minister announced the launch, in the next two to three weeks, of calls for tenders for a new independent power plant, fuelled by gas from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project, shared with Senegal. "All new electricity production projects in Mauritania will be private. Public companies will no longer be involved in electricity production", he said. Two current projects, developed in the form of independent production partnerships (IPP), will inject 550 MW into the national grid over the next few years, using domestic gas.

This reform is part of a drive to take advantage of gas and renewable resources to support industrialisation, broaden access to electricity and stimulate inclusive growth. With a current energy access rate of 57%, Mauritania aims to have complete national coverage by 2030. Gas from the GTA project will play a key role, powering a 250 MW combined cycle power plant in each country during the first phase.

Mauritania is also positioning itself as an African pioneer in the development of green hydrogen. "We have the largest portfolio of green hydrogen projects in Africa, with a potential of 12 million tonnes per year", said Mohamed Ould Khaled. This potential is based on ideal conditions: winds blowing at 10 metres per second, exceptional sunshine and strategic proximity toWITH Europe. The aim of these projects is not only to export hydrogen, but also to decarbonise difficult industrial sectors and catalyse the country's industrialisation.

To support this ambition, the government has modernised its regulatory framework, introducing Africa's first green hydrogen code, a new PPP code, a local content policy and incentives for private investors. "These reforms provide clarity and long-term stability for investors," said the Minister.

Mauritania's strategy is not limited to gas and hydrogen. The country plans to develop the BirAllah gas field, increase LNG production from the GTA project to 10 million tonnes per year, strengthen cross-border electricity exchanges and boost its mining sector. These initiatives are based on the country's unique combination of gas, solar and wind resources, as well as its strategic geographical position.

"We want to expand access to clean, affordable energy for our people and our industries, while unlocking our mining potential", concluded the Minister. By relying on PPPs and modernised governance, Mauritania is positioning itself as a key player in the African and global energy transition.