Construction begins on the GTA-Gandon gas pipeline in Saint-Louis: Authorities emphasize the socio-economic impacts of the project

Senegal has taken another step in developing its gas resources with the official launch of construction on the gas pipeline linking the GTA platform, off the coast of Saint-Louis, to the Gandon power plant. This large-scale project, which is expected to extend to Louga, Thiès, and potentially Dakar, is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at sustainably strengthening the country's energy supply.

Gathered in a regional development committee (CRD), administrative authorities, technical services and stakeholders in the gas sector discussed the outlines of this strategic project, its challenges and its impact on local populations.

The governor of Saint-Louis emphasized the importance of this meeting, which allowed for a better understanding of the project's scope. According to Al Hassane Sall, it is not simply an energy infrastructure project, but a lever for territorial development.

"We wanted to understand the nature of the work, its significance and above all its strategic role, both for the country and for our locality," he said.

The gas pipeline route will start from the GTA platform to reach Gandon, before extending towards Louga, Thiès and possibly Dakar.

Beyond the technical aspects, the discussions focused on the socio-economic impacts of the project, including improving living conditions for the population and access to more affordable energy.

The governor also emphasized the importance of collective action to ensure the smooth implementation of the project. He called for all stakeholders to take ownership of the issues at stake in order to prevent conflicts, ensure the safety of the facilities, and guarantee compliance with corporate social responsibility (CSR) standards.

On the technical side, El Hadj Baldé detailed the characteristics of the gas pipeline. The infrastructure will include an offshore section of approximately 45 km and an onshore section of 40 km. It will allow the gas produced at GTA to be transported to the Gandon power plant, pending the complete finishing of the electrical installations.

Beyond its role in supplying gas to Gandon, this pipeline is a key component of the future national gas network. It will serve as a connection point for several segments currently under development, notably the so-called "green" segment linking the north to the Mboro power plants, the "blue" segment between Mboro and Cap des Biches, and the "orange" segment between Sendou and Malicounda.

Ultimately, this integrated network should significantly improve Senegal's energy production capacity. The upcoming connection of the Senelec power plant at Cap des Biches will mark a major step forward, with anticipated benefits for business productivity and the competitiveness of the national economy.

The authorities are also counting on a direct impact for households, thanks to increased availability of gas, both for electricity production and for domestic uses, at more competitive costs.