Senegal turns to domestic gas to curb electricity costs
Senegal plans to use more domestically produced natural gas to lower electricity generation costs and reduce its dependence on expensive imported fuels.
Senegal intends to lean more heavily on natural gas produced at home to bring down the cost of generating electricity, the country's energy minister has said, as the government looks to reduce its exposure to expensive imported fuels.
Energy Minister El Hadji Abdourahmane Diouf said the priority is to lower the actual cost of electricity. The strategy rests on three pillars: developing domestic natural gas, expanding renewable energy capacity and improving operational efficiency.
The shift comes as rising energy prices have pushed up the government's fuel subsidy costs. Conflict in the Middle East this year has contributed to the surge in global fuel prices, adding pressure on the West African nation's budget.
Senegal has expanded its oil and gas production in recent years, a development that has supported economic growth and lifted exports. The country began producing oil in 2024 and announced its first gas output in 2025.
Diouf said Senegal remains open to working with new partners to help develop its resources. He described BP, Kosmos and Woodside as strategic partners that have played a decisive role in recent domestic gas discoveries, development and production.
The government's plan to bring down energy costs also involves reforms to its subsidy system, according to the minister's remarks.