Nachtigal hydropower project

Construction of a dam and a hydro-electric station

BESIX, in partnership with NGE (France) and SGTM (Morocco), contributed to the construction of the Nachtigal Hydropower Project in Cameroon. Located on the Sanaga River, the 420 MW facility was designed to supply 30% of the country’s electricity needs. As one of Africa’s largest public-private energy partnerships, the project marked a major step forward in Cameroon’s renewable energy development.

Project overview

Situated 65 km north of Yaoundé, the Nachtigal Hydropower Project was developed by Nachtigal Hydro Power Company (NHPC), a consortium comprising EDF International, the International Finance Corporation (World Bank Group), and the State of Cameroon. The project aimed to boost national energy capacity through sustainable hydroelectric power. BESIX’s involvement built on its long-standing presence in Cameroon, where it had previously delivered major infrastructure including hospitals, ministry buildings, bridges, and port facilities.

Scope of works

Design and construction of a 1.5 km long, 14 m high dam wall
Excavation and construction of a 3 km+ water supply canal
Civil engineering works for the hydro-electric power station
Construction of water intake structures
Integration of sustainable construction practices and local workforce development

Highlights

Major energy contribution: The 420 MW plant was designed to meet nearly one-third of Cameroon’s electricity demand.
Award-winning financing: The project’s funding model, led by NHPC, received international recognition from Project Finance International (PFI).
Strategic partnerships: BESIX collaborated with NGE and SGTM, combining international expertise with regional knowledge.
Sustainable development: The project supported Cameroon’s transition to renewable energy while creating local employment and infrastructure.
Legacy in cameroon: BESIX reinforced its presence in the country, building on a portfolio of landmark projects including the Yaoundé hospital and the Pont de l’Enfance.

We are very happy to strengthen our business in Africa in general and in Cameroon in particular. In the past, we already completed several reference projects in the country, such as building the Yaoundé hospital, various ministry buildings, the Pont de l'Enfance, a spillway on the Sanaga River, and various docks in the port of Douala. With our participation in the Nachtigal hydro-electric project, we are proud to contribute to the development of renewable energy in the country.