Côte d'Ivoire is banking on the sun to strengthen its electricity production. In Tongon, in the M'Bengué department, Poro region, the Minister of Mines, Oil and Energy, Mamadou Sangafowa-Coulibaly, launched, on October 23, 2026, work on a 52 megawatt-peak (MWp) photovoltaic power plant. This 33 billion CFA francs initiative illustrates the country's desire to diversify the Ivorian energy mix while supporting local development. Led by Tongon Solaire SAS, a company with entirely Ivorian capital, the project will occupy around 50 hectares. Its commissioning is expected by mid-2028. The agreement provides for the design, financing, construction and operation of the infrastructure for 25 years.

Beyond electricity production, economic benefits are expected. The Government announces nearly 500 jobs during the construction phase. When signing the agreement in August 2025, the authorities presented this project as a signal intended to strengthen the place of the national private sector in the development of electricity infrastructure. The President of Tongon Solaire SAS, Abdoul Soukpafolo Koné, then highlighted the capacity of Ivorian companies to intervene on strategic projects.

The promoter also plans an annual production equivalent to the needs of around 30,000 homes. He estimates that the plant will avoid some 39,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year.The project is part of the national solar development program. The authorities are targeting 45% renewable energy in the energy mix by 2030, with more than fifteen power plants announced.