JIRAMA and First Energy take action

On January 30, 2025, JIRAMA and First Energy Sarl signed an agreement to install hybrid power plants in seven isolated areas. The goal is to reduce diesel costs, boost rural electrification, and green the energy mix.

Ron Weiss, General Manager of JIRAMA, and Shahim Ismael, representative of First Energy Sarl, formalized a strategic partnership. This cooperation aims to transform seven thermal power plants into hybrid thermal infrastructures. Starting February 1, 2025, the localities of Ambanja, Anahidrano, Anivorano Nord, Mampikony, Port-Bergé, Maevatanana, and Antsohihy will begin their energy transition. With a total capacity of 8,535 KWc, this contract definitively replaces the old agreements deemed obsolete.

According to the World Bank, JIRAMA is in debt to the tune of 600 million USD, and this project represents an essential lever. Consequently, the public company hopes to reduce its production costs by 30 %, thanks to a reduced dependence on imported fuel. This is a necessary choice for regions like Maevatanana, where 90 % of households still live without electricity.

This partnership is reminiscent of Ambatolampy in 2018. At the time, the 20 MW solar power plant, financed by the World Bank and the African Development Bank (ADB), supplied 5 % of the capital. However, payment delays had tarnished the collaboration. Today, JIRAMA promises a stable financial framework, supported by the state and international donors, to avoid past pitfalls.

On the ground, expectations are already being met. In Port-Bergé, traders consider extending their hours thanks to a reliable power supply. A doctor in Antsohihy hopes to keep his clinic operational 24/7. « Hybrid energy changes the game for isolated areas », notes an expert.

But the horizon is not without clouds: complex logistics, tight schedules, and infrastructure maintenance represent major challenges. Furthermore, JIRAMA must restore trust with its partners after previous disputes.