Nachtigal Dam: A Key Step Towards Solving Cameroon’s Energy Crisis

Douala, Cameroon Faces Power Challenges as Nachtigal Dam Nears Full Capacity. The Nachtigal hydroelectric dam, with a production capacity of 420 MW, is set to supply energy to Cameroon’s power grid. However, transmitting this electricity efficiently to Douala requires significant upgrades to the country’s existing infrastructure. A joint delegation from the Ministry of Water and Energy (MINEE) and the World Bank recently inspected the ongoing work to assess progress. With 300 MW already integrated into the grid, the initiative aims to reduce the energy deficit and meet rising demands.

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Inspection of Power Transmission Infrastructure

On February 18, 2025, a joint delegation from MINEE and the World Bank conducted an inspection of the electricity transmission infrastructure leading to Yaoundé. The primary objective was to evaluate the progress of power transport to Yaoundé and Douala, cities that have been struggling with frequent blackouts. Douala, Cameroon’s economic hub, has been particularly affected by power shortages, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.

Nachtigal Dam at the Core of the Project

The Nachtigal dam, optimized to generate 420 MW, is a crucial component of the Southern Interconnected Network (RIS). However, transporting this energy to key urban centers, including Douala, remains a significant challenge.

To prevent frequent power outages, authorities must replace outdated transformers and strengthen electrical lines. The collapse of wooden poles, a primary cause of service disruptions, must also be addressed.

Key Sites Visited by Officials

Minister Gaston Eloundou Essomba, alongside World Bank representatives, visited several critical sites, including:

The Ngousso substation in Yaoundé (90/30/15 kV)
The 90 kV Ngousso-Nyom 2 transmission line
The 400 kV Nyom 2-Nkolkoulou transmission line

The official purpose of this visit was to ensure that ongoing work aligns with the project timeline for the optimal distribution of energy produced by the Nachtigal dam.

Current Progress and Future Goals

As of now, 300 MW have already been integrated into the Southern Interconnected Network (RIS), with the fifth turbine unit at Nachtigal operational. The next step is efficiently distributing this energy to households and industries across the country.

Experts emphasize that enhancing Cameroon’s electricity supply depends on the full deployment of the Nachtigal hydroelectric project. Strengthening energy production capacity is essential to supporting the growing demands of industries and households alike, ensuring a more stable and reliable power supply in the years to come.