Congo's Djeno Gas-to-Power Plant to Launch First Turbine in March 2025
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Presently, the nation's primary power generation facility is the Centrale Électrique du Congo (CEC), a joint venture between Eni and the Congolese government. Located in Pointe-Noire, the CEC has an installed capacity of 484 MW, following an expansion from its initial 314 MW capacity.
A Game-Changer for Congo’s Energy SectorThe Djeno Power Plant, developed by Aksa Enerji, is a landmark project for Congo's energy sector, aiming to enhance electricity generation and diversify power sources. The plant has a current installed capacity of 50 MW, comprising two combined-cycle combustion turbines of 25 MW each. The first turbine is scheduled for commissioning in March 2025, while the second is undergoing maintenance and is expected to be operational by the third quarter of 2025.
In collaboration with the Congolese government, efforts are underway to expand the plant's total capacity to 100 MW. In an interview with Energy Capital & Power, Recep Çorlu, Managing Director of Aksa Enerji in Congo, stated: "We are working in close cooperation with the necessary ministries to increase the project to 100 MW. We will work hard to complete the project as soon as possible when the necessary conditions are met.”
Aksa Enerji has applied its extensive expertise in power generation to revitalize the Djeno Power Plant. Traditionally powered by oil, the plant’s operations were transitioned to natural gas. The gas will be sourced from Eni's Marine XII and M'Boundi fields, in line with the government’s gas monetization strategy. "Gas supply will be secured in consultation with the ministries of energy and hydrocarbons,” confirmed Çorlu.
Once fully operational, the Djeno Power Plant will contribute to stabilizing electricity access in Congo, while supporting industrial growth and economic development.
Aksa Enerji's investment in Congo is part of a broader strategy to support energy security across the continent. The project aims to introduce efficient transmission infrastructure to bolster electricity supply to Brazzaville, ensuring that generated power reaches consumers with minimal losses. “In order for the generated electricity to be delivered without any problems, regular maintenance and improvements of transmission lines are required,” said Çorlu.
In addition to supporting national electrification, the Djeno Power Plant has the potential to expand its reach to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and other landlocked countries. This expansion could be enabled by the Boucle de l’Amitié Énergétique project, a 1,400 kV power line slated to connect Congo, DRC and Angola by 2025. The interconnection aims to address ongoing electricity shortages and strengthen regional energy security.
With increasing energy demand across Central Africa, particularly in the DRC, which faces chronic electricity shortages, the Djeno Power Plant has the potential to become a key supplier. Its expansion to 100 MW will enable Congo to establish itself as a net energy exporter, strengthening economic ties with neighboring countries.
The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF), taking place in Brazzaville from March 24-26, will gather international investors and local stakeholders to explore opportunities in energy infrastructure. Organized by Energy Capital & Power in collaboration with the Ministry of Hydrocarbons, CEIF 2025 will feature a dedicated panel discussion on gas-to-power initiatives within the country.