Philippe Tonangoye to Speak at African Energy Week 2025
Philippe Tonangoye, the Minister of Universal Access to Water and Energy in Gabon, is set to attend the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference from September 29 to October 3, 2025, in Cape Town. His participation comes at a pivotal time for Gabon as the nation embarks on a robust strategy aimed at improving access to essential water and energy services. This proactive approach hinges on strategic investments and partnerships, targeting infrastructure and support for local businesses.
The Role of Natural Gas in Gabon’s Energy Strategy
Natural gas is becoming a critical component in Gabon’s energy landscape, serving as a cornerstone for the country’s petroleum and power development. Gabon is looking to capitalize on its offshore resources to stimulate economic growth, particularly through advancements in gas-to-power technologies and floating power generation solutions. An exciting development is the upcoming Orinko gas-to-power plant, which is set to commence construction shortly. With a Shareholders’ Agreement finalized in May 2025, this project is anticipated to significantly enhance power access across Gabon, increasing the country’s electricity generation capacity by 50%.
The Orinko project is managed by Orinko SPV, which includes key players like the Gabon Power Company, Wärtsilä, Africa 50, FGIS, and Melec PowerGen. Operating under a build-own-operate-transfer model, this innovative facility will harness offshore gas resources as a feedstock to generate electricity, thereby laying the groundwork for an improved energy landscape in Gabon. Currently, gas power facilities run by Perenco supply 70% of Libreville’s energy needs and all electricity demands in Port-Gentil. The successful launch of the Orinko plant should bolster Gabon’s capacity to deliver reliable energy solutions to its citizens.
Exploring Renewable Energy Opportunities
In addition to its focus on natural gas, Gabon is leading efforts in renewable energy, aiming to enhance both grid-connected and off-grid power access in its pursuit of universal energy availability by 2030. The recent operational launch of Karpowership’s floating power plants in February 2025 has started to transform the energy sector in Gabon, supplying essential electricity to Libreville and surrounding areas. Under a five-year contract signed in 2024, Karpowership is committed to delivering 250 MW of electricity to the region. Their two powerships currently provide around 25% of Gabon’s total electricity output, marking a significant step toward modernizing the country’s infrastructure while offering clean energy solutions to underserved communities.
Gabon has also made strides in hydropower development. Approximately 50% of the nation’s electricity derives from hydro resources, primarily supplied by the Grand Poubara Hydroelectric Dam (160 MW) and the Kinguele Aval Hydroelectric Dam (70 MW). However, to meet future energy requirements, the country will need increased investments across its power sector.
Establishment of the National Fund for Energy and Water
To facilitate energy project development, Gabon has set up a National Fund for Energy and Water (FNEE) in 2025, designed to mobilize necessary capital for various energy and water initiatives. The fund aims to mitigate power outages by implementing immediate measures, fostering key infrastructure investments, and enhancing collaboration among regions. It also seeks to revive stalled power projects, including the upcoming 125 MW Owendo thermal power station, scheduled for 2027, along with the Ngoulmendjim and L’impératrice Eugénie hydroelectric plants. The financial prospect is significant, with these three projects requiring an estimated $453 million for successful realization, highlighting a promising opportunity for investors and developers targeting impactful initiatives in Africa.
Unlocking Economic Opportunities through Diverse Energy Solutions
Gabon’s comprehensive approach to achieving universal electricity access could unlock considerable economic and developmental prospects for the nation. By diversifying its power generation portfolio—including gas-to-power, floating facilities, hydroelectric projects, and renewable energy—Gabon is strategically positioning itself to create greater energy access while attracting various investors. As Ore Onagbesan, Program Director for AEW: Invest in African Energies, pointed out, this multifaceted strategy not only expands energy opportunities but also invites a diverse range of project developers into the market.
For more information about the AEW: Invest in African Energies conference, which serves as the primary venue for stakeholders in African energy to forge partnerships and sign deals, visit https://AECWeek.com.
