GE Vernova lands Songon power role

GE Vernova has been appointed to provide the gas power technology for the new Songon combined-cycle power plant in Ivory Coast

It follows the signing of financing agreements last June, in which the developer Songon Energies, an Ivorian investment firm focused on energy infrastructure, selected GE Vernova to supply a 9E gas turbine and generator.

“We are honoured to support Songon Energies with our proven 9E technology for this crucial infrastructure project," said Joseph Anis, CEO of Gas Power in Europe, Middle East, and Africa at GE Vernova.

Songon power plant

The new plant, located in the Songon region near Abidjan, will be built by EPC contractor China Energy International Engineering Co., Ltd., and is expected to deliver 372 megawatts (MW), enough to power approximately 5 million Ivorian homes.

“The Songon Energies project is designed to strengthen energy security and support future growing electricity demand growth in the Greater Abidjan region while reinforcing the country's position as a regional energy hub in West Africa,” said Wang Xiaoming, deputy general manager and acting CEO for Songon Energies.

“The facility is expected to ease energy pressure on the Abidjan metropolitan area, providing a reliable foundation for the development of skilled workers, the growth of industrial zones, the expansion of small and medium-sized enterprises and a tangible improvement in the daily lives of millions of Ivorian households.

”Xiaoming said GE Vernova was selected for its efficient technology and constant, proven presence in Ivory Coast, “which gives us great confidence in the long-term success of this facility.”

Electrification objectives

The West African country has made significant progress in developing its energy infrastructure, reaching an electrification rate of 94.3% by 2024, with a goal to achieve universal electrification and improved power quality by 2030.

Despite these gains, the nation faces an annual demand growth rate of 10-15% and rural areas still require expanded access.

In this energy landscape, the Songon power plant is expected to help fill a critical gap.

The new facility is projected to represent up to 12% of the country’s total installed base upon its scheduled 2029 operational launch.

The project is also expected to generate up to 1,400 new jobs.

GE Vernova footprint

GE Vernova’s commitment to Ivory Coast is built on a long history of supporting the nation’s electrification goals, with a footprint that incorporates a large installed base, key power transmission hardware, digital software deployments, and long-term service contracts.

GE Vernova utilises its global expertise and local presence to help power plant operators increase power capacity, while supporting a more secure and reliable energy future, said Anis.

“Our commitment to power plant operators is rooted in delivering advanced gas power technology that provides the reliable, dispatchable energy necessary for long-term growth and positive community impact,” he said.

“Beyond the turbine island, we look forward to applying our expertise in powering the HV sub-station, providing digital software, and long-term services to support the broader energy system in its goal to enhance grid stability, operational efficiency, and local prosperity.”