By Sunday Elijah,
Ivory Coast’s energy sector is projected to experience significant growth in the coming years, driven by offshore oil discoveries, power sector modernization, and cross-border energy projects, according to a press release from Energy Capital & Power, an Africa-focused energy investment and media platform.
The country’s oil production is expected to more than triple, rising from roughly 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) today to an estimated 200,000 bpd by 2027. Key developments include the Baleine offshore field discovered in 2021 and the Calao field in 2024. Italy’s Eni, in partnership with national oil company Petroci, has committed $10 billion to develop the Baleine field, while the government has opened 26 upstream blocks for further exploration and development.
The upcoming MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference in Dakar will feature a dedicated session highlighting Ivory Coast’s projected role as a regional energy hub. “Ivory Coast’s energy sector is entering a transformative phase, with major discoveries and strategic investments positioning the country as a regional energy hub. This year’s spotlight session is well-positioned to highlight the country’s dynamic oil, gas and power developments, offering valuable insights for investors and industry stakeholders,” said Sandra Jeque, Events and Project Director at Energy Capital & Power.
Beyond oil and gas, Ivory Coast is rapidly modernizing its power sector to meet growing electricity demand, which is increasing at about 6% annually. Investments are focused on expanding generation capacity, upgrading the national grid, and improving rural access. The country’s National Renewable Energy Action Plan aims for 45% of electricity generation from solar and biomass by 2030, supported by projects such as the Aboisso biomass plant, the floating solar installation at Kossou dam, and expansions of the Azito and Ciprel thermal plants.
Ivory Coast is also emerging as a key regional electricity exporter, supplying 10–20% of its power to neighboring countries including Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Mali. The country participates in the West African Power Pool and is developing interconnection projects such as the Eastern Backbone, supported by the European Investment Bank and KfW, to integrate northern solar power and strengthen regional electricity trade.
