Blackouts are routine in almost all West African countries and electricity is often considered a luxury commodity. It is estimated that no more than 20 percent, and in some countries as little as 5 percent, of the population have direct access to electricity. This figure falls to 2 percent in rural areas.

Electric power generation goes beyond erecting large infrastructures.  It is equally about providing power and vital services to expand commerce, increase productivity and enhance the standard of living by giving families affordable energy for cooking, heating and lighting.