Russian companies are involved in 30 new power projects in Nigeria and 15 other African countries. The projects are expected to generate about 3.7 gigawatts of electricity.
President Vladimir Putin of Russia made the disclosure at
the Russia-Africa Summit and Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum
holding in St. Petersburg, Russia.
He listed some of the power projects currently underway in
16 African countries including Nigeria.
“More than 30 ambitious energy projects that involve Russian
companies are now underway to varying extents in 16 African countries, with a
total capacity of about 3.7 gigawatts. Russia’s RusHydro offers a vast scope of
services to African partners, ranging from design and equipment supply to
modernisation and construction of new turnkey power generating facilities.
“Russian companies Gazprom, Rosneft, Lukoil, and
Zarubezhneft are involved in developing oil and gas fields in Algeria, Egypt,
Cameroon, Nigeria, and the Republic of the Congo. Over the past two years,
Russia’s exports of crude oil, petroleum products, and liquefied natural gas to
Africa have seen a 2.6-fold increase. Rosatom, our top nuclear energy company,
is building El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant in Egypt. This state corporation can
share its unique expertise with African countries, as well as unparalleled
technologies in non-energy peaceful use of atom, such as in healthcare and
agriculture.
He recalled that Russian companies had executed power
project worth 4.6 gigawatts on the continent, representing 25 per cent of
Africa’s hydropower capacity.
According to him, the European company was ready to partner
with African states and companies to develop the power sector and boost
electricity generation.
He said, “We are also interested in further developing
cooperation with African countries in the energy sector. This interaction is
based on vast experience. Over many years, Soviet and Russian specialists have
been involved in designing and building major power-generating facilities in
Angola, Egypt, Ethiopia, and other countries on the continent, with a total
capacity of 4.6 gigawatts and amounting to 25 per cent of Africa’s hydropower
capacity.
“Currently, Russian companies are implementing new mutually
beneficial projects that aim to meet African economies’ increasing needs for
fuel and generating capacities, and provide Africans with access to affordable,
reliable, sustainable and eco-friendly sources of energy.”
While highlighting the importance of promoting deeper
cooperation between Russia and Africa in manufacturing, Putin said the continent
knew Russia for its industrial goods, including cars, construction equipment,
and many other products.
No fewer than 20 African leaders are attending the summit.
Earlier, Putin had said his country would supply free grains
to some African countries, saying Russia could replace Ukraine grains and fill
the gap in the global food supply chain.