BERBERA, Somaliland (Horn Post) — Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi Irro on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, inaugurated a major solar power expansion project in Berbera. The project aims to improve electricity supply, support economic activity and reduce the city’s dependence on diesel-generated power.
The Berbera Solar Power Expansion Project includes a 5-megawatt-peak (MWp) solar photovoltaic facility and an 11.2-kilometre electricity transmission line operating at 33 kilovolts (kV).
The new infrastructure forms part of efforts to strengthen Berbera’s energy system. It is also expected to support the city’s growing demand for electricity as its port, businesses and population continue to expand.
During the inauguration ceremony, President Irro welcomed the development and thanked the United Arab Emirates for its support of electricity infrastructure in Somaliland. He described the UAE as a close partner and highlighted the importance of continued cooperation in development and investment.
President Irro Highlights Importance of Reliable Electricity
In his address, President Irro said access to reliable and affordable electricity remains essential to Somaliland’s economic development.
He noted that a stable power supply helps attract investors, supports industrial growth and improves the delivery of public services. It also creates opportunities for businesses and employment.
The President said the Berbera project reflects his government’s commitment to improving essential infrastructure in strategically important cities.
He also stressed the importance of developing sustainable energy sources. According to the government, expanding renewable energy capacity will help strengthen the country’s economy and improve the reliability of electricity services.
For Berbera, the project has particular importance because the city serves as a major commercial and logistics centre. Its port, transport links and growing business sector depend on a reliable supply of power.
Project Adds 5 MWp of Solar Power to Berbera’s Grid
The project consists of two main components: a solar power plant and an electricity transmission network.
The 5 MWp photovoltaic facility converts sunlight into electricity and supplies power to the local grid. Meanwhile, the 11.2-kilometre, 33 kV transmission line helps connect the new generation capacity to Berbera’s electricity network.
According to project information released by UAE-based Global South Utilities (GSU), the plant is designed to generate approximately 10,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity annually.
The company says this output is equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of nearly 28,000 households.
GSU also estimates that the project could prevent around 6,890 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year by replacing part of the electricity previously generated through diesel-based systems.
These figures highlight the potential contribution of solar energy to Berbera’s electricity supply. However, the actual benefits will depend on demand, grid performance and the wider integration of renewable energy into the city’s power system.
UAE-Based Company Supports Berbera’s Energy Development
The project also highlights the role of UAE-based investment in Somaliland’s energy sector.
Global South Utilities, an Abu Dhabi-based energy company, inaugurated the solar facility and introduced its wider Green Berbera Vision. The initiative aims to gradually shift Berbera’s electricity system away from heavy dependence on diesel and toward renewable energy supported by battery storage.
The company’s plans include increasing solar generation, improving grid reliability and introducing energy storage technology. Battery systems can store electricity generated during periods of strong sunlight and release it when solar production falls or demand increases.
This approach could help address one of the main challenges facing solar power systems: maintaining a stable electricity supply after sunset.
President Irro’s remarks also highlighted the broader relationship between Somaliland and the UAE. He thanked the Emirates for supporting development projects and expressed appreciation for their cooperation with Somaliland.
Berbera’s Growing Economy Increases Demand for Power
Berbera’s economic importance makes improvements to its electricity infrastructure particularly significant.
The city hosts Somaliland’s main commercial seaport, which plays an important role in regional trade and the movement of goods. It also serves as a gateway connecting Somaliland to international markets.
As commercial activity grows, demand for electricity is likely to increase across several sectors. These include port operations, logistics, manufacturing, hotels, retail businesses and public services.
A more reliable electricity supply could help businesses reduce operating costs and improve productivity. It could also make the city more attractive to investors considering new commercial and industrial activities.
In addition, improved access to electricity can support hospitals, schools, water services and other public institutions.
However, the long-term economic impact will depend not only on additional generation capacity but also on electricity prices, distribution networks and the ability of the power system to meet demand consistently.
Part of a Wider Renewable Energy Transition
The inauguration marks an important step in Berbera’s transition toward a more diversified energy system.
For years, many electricity systems in the region have relied heavily on diesel generators. Although these systems provide power, fuel imports and operating costs can place pressure on electricity providers and consumers.
Solar energy offers an alternative source of generation. It can reduce fuel consumption, diversify the energy mix and lower emissions.
The Green Berbera Vision seeks to build on the new solar facility through further renewable energy investment and battery storage.
The wider initiative could also provide experience for other Somaliland cities seeking to improve electricity access and reduce dependence on imported fuel.
For Somaliland, expanding renewable energy will remain an important part of efforts to strengthen energy security, support private investment and improve living standards.
The Berbera project therefore represents more than an addition to the city’s electricity network. It forms part of a broader effort to connect infrastructure development with economic growth and sustainable energy.
Horn Post Staff Reporter
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Berbera, Somaliland
