By Jean Christophe, Managing Director of Siemens Energy Francophone West Africa
Interview
TT: Jean Christophe, it’s a pleasure to see you again. I think the last time we met was at the German African Energy Forum in Hamburg—what, two or three years ago?
JC: Yes, two or three years ago.
TT: It’s been some time! That was not in Abidjan, unfortunately. But now we’re here in Abidjan, which is even better, for SIREXE. This event brings together the petroleum, mining, and energy sectors, which are becoming central to the country’s economy. We’ve heard from the Vice President and the Minister that they want to make energy a second economic pillar. So, Zis Energy is here for SIREXE—what’s your message?
JC: We are here to showcase our products, solutions, and technologies. Our aim is to support Ivory Coast’s strategy of becoming an energy hub for the subregion. We are involved in all parts of the energy sector—from oil and gas to electricity production, transportation, and grid stability.
TT: You mentioned grid stability, which is critical for building a sustainable system. Often, we focus on generation, but if you can’t transport or distribute the electricity, there’s a problem. What does grid stability mean to you, and how do you help achieve it?
JC: Historically, Ivory Coast’s electricity production has been 70% gas-fired power plants and 30% hydropower plants. Now, they’re starting to integrate photovoltaic (PV) plants in the north—like the 30 MW Boundiali project, which is expected to expand.
The challenge is that most gas-fired plants are in the south, while new PV plants are in the north. Transporting electricity between these regions can create instability. We offer solutions like synchronous condensers and STATCOMs to stabilize the grid. We already have successful installations, such as a STATCOM in Ghana, and we hope to see similar projects in Ivory Coast in the coming years.
TT: With the influx of renewables, particularly solar, the grid will need to integrate these new power sources. Some countries limit renewable penetration to 30% to avoid grid disturbances. How are you preparing to manage this transition?
JC: We focus on grid stability rather than PV production. Our team at Siemens Energy is skilled in understanding technical specifications for these solutions and in providing them to power utilities.
The real challenge will be training local personnel at companies like Côte d’Ivoire Energies and CIE (the private grid operator). Currently, the grid is simple and stable because it relies on predictable gas and hydro sources.
However, with new PV plants and seasonal hydropower variability, grid management becomes more complex. Decisions like balancing power sources cannot rely on human judgment alone. Digitalization and automation—potentially with AI—will be essential. The skills to implement this are currently missing, not just in Ivory Coast but globally.
TT: I was speaking to the CEO recently, and they shared impressive statistics—only 8% distribution losses and 98% bill collection rates. That’s remarkable for any utility. How do you think Ivory Coast has achieved this, especially compared to other African markets?
JC: There are two main reasons. First, Ivory Coast reformed its electricity sector early, in the 1990s. They signed the first independent power producer (IPP) contracts and split the sector into production, transportation, and distribution.
The government subcontracted transportation and distribution to a private company, CIE, under a concession agreement with clear performance targets. If CIE doesn’t recover revenue, they aren’t paid. As a private company, they have the flexibility and incentive to perform efficiently.
For example, private companies can quickly procure equipment like meters without going through lengthy public tender processes. This flexibility allows them to respond faster to technical failures and reduce distribution losses.
TT: That makes perfect sense. Many utilities across the continent struggle with inefficiencies and bankability. It seems a controlled liberalization—where private companies take responsibility under clear performance targets—could be a solution.
JC: Exactly. With proper agreements and targets, private companies can ensure efficiency while delivering value to the public.
TT: Do you have any final thoughts on SIREXE or Ivory Coast’s energy sector?
JC: This event highlights the tremendous potential for Ivory Coast to become an energy hub in West Africa. I hope this progress extends to neighboring countries, helping build stronger energy sectors across the region.
TT: Excellent. Thank you very much, Jean Christophe. And I hope we won’t wait as long to meet again!
JC: No, no—you’re invited back to Abidjan anytime!
