Senegal Plans to Stop Natural Gas Imports by 2026, Leveraging Domestic Production for Energy Security
Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has announced that the country will cease importing natural gas in 2026, a strategic move aimed at reducing budget pressures and improving energy efficiency.
The government plans to make natural gas a core part of its power mix by converting an existing plant and constructing a new facility. Officials have yet to clarify how this shift will affect electricity bills for households and businesses.
To replace imported supplies, Senegal will rely on production from the Sangomar oil field and the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) gas project, which began operations this year.
Authorities expect a portion of the GTA project’s output to support the domestic market in the coming years.
The finance ministry emphasized that electricity subsidies continue to weigh heavily on public finances, even as households still face relatively high electricity tariffs.
Any reduction in costs after 2026 will depend on tariff decisions by the state utility and the electricity regulator.
This plan underscores Senegal’s commitment to energy independence and the optimal use of domestic natural resources to support economic growth and financial stability.
