Solar power illuminating lives: Senegal's journey towards sustainable energy


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Solar power is lighting up the heart of Senegal thanks to a project that is revolutionising the nation's energy landscape.

The cities of Kaolack and Kael have widely adopted the use of solar panels that can generate up to 44 megawatts of power to help solve energy problems in the region.

Not only does the use of the panels provide a solution to the lack of available electricity, it is also helping to drive the region towards cleaner and renewable energy sources.

“This project will directly benefit 540,000 people in Senegal,” said Jeylani Diop, chief executive of Solarsen.

The company takes the solar power that is generated and transfers it to Senelac, Senegal's primary power distributor.

Jeylani Diop of Solarsen at the Kaolak solar power plant. Mahmoud Rida / The National
Jeylani Diop of Solarsen at the Kaolak solar power plant. Mahmoud Rida / The National

The overall result is that power cuts are decreasing while the electricity supply is more abundant, promising a brighter future for Senegal's residents.

Solar plants already produce 3 per cent of Senegal's total energy consumption.

The project is part of the Scaling Solar scheme, funded by the International Finance Corporation, which aims to drive a shift towards greener, more sustainable electricity production in Senegal.

The advent of solar power has helped to make life a lot easier for people in Kaolack and Kael.

One person who has benefitted directly is Kaolack resident Oumoul Faye, who has opened a currency exchange.

“Before the power plant installation, untimely power cuts were constant,” she said.

“Now our economy thrives, as we have a reliable electricity supply.”

Kael Mayor El Hadja Ba praised the project and spoke of its success in helping to power mill machines for residents, as well as providing power to hospitals.

As solar energy illuminates Senegal, it ushers in an era of change – one that not only powers homes but also lights up lives, propelling the nation towards a brighter, more sustainable future.

Shubh Mangal Saavdhan
Directed by: RS Prasanna
Starring: Ayushmann Khurrana, Bhumi Pednekar

The specs

Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo

Power: 261hp at 5,500rpm

Torque: 405Nm at 1,750-3,500rpm

Transmission: 9-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 6.9L/100km

On sale: Now

Price: From Dh117,059

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The specs: 2019 Mercedes-Benz C200 Coupe


Price, base: Dh201,153
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Power: 204hp @ 5,800rpm
Torque: 300Nm @ 1,600rpm
Fuel economy, combined: 6.7L / 100km

The candidates

Dr Ayham Ammora, scientist and business executive

Ali Azeem, business leader

Tony Booth, professor of education

Lord Browne, former BP chief executive

Dr Mohamed El-Erian, economist

Professor Wyn Evans, astrophysicist

Dr Mark Mann, scientist

Gina MIller, anti-Brexit campaigner

Lord Smith, former Cabinet minister

Sandi Toksvig, broadcaster

 

FFP EXPLAINED

What is Financial Fair Play?
Introduced in 2011 by Uefa, European football’s governing body, it demands that clubs live within their means. Chiefly, spend within their income and not make substantial losses.

What the rules dictate? 
The second phase of its implementation limits losses to €30 million (Dh136m) over three seasons. Extra expenditure is permitted for investment in sustainable areas (youth academies, stadium development, etc). Money provided by owners is not viewed as income. Revenue from “related parties” to those owners is assessed by Uefa's “financial control body” to be sure it is a fair value, or in line with market prices.

What are the penalties? 
There are a number of punishments, including fines, a loss of prize money or having to reduce squad size for European competition – as happened to PSG in 2014. There is even the threat of a competition ban, which could in theory lead to PSG’s suspension from the Uefa Champions League.

Breast cancer in men: the facts

1) Breast cancer is men is rare but can develop rapidly. It usually occurs in those over the ages of 60, but can occasionally affect younger men.

2) Symptoms can include a lump, discharge, swollen glands or a rash. 

3) People with a history of cancer in the family can be more susceptible. 

4) Treatments include surgery and chemotherapy but early diagnosis is the key. 

5) Anyone concerned is urged to contact their doctor

 

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%3Cp%3EGoalkeepers%3A%20Alisson%2C%20Ederson%2C%20Weverton%3Cbr%3E%3Cbr%3EDefenders%3A%20Dani%20Alves%2C%20Marquinhos%2C%20Thiago%20Silva%2C%20Eder%20Militao%20%2C%20Danilo%2C%20Alex%20Sandro%2C%20Alex%20Telles%2C%20Bremer.%3Cbr%3E%3Cbr%3EMidfielders%3A%20Casemiro%2C%20Fred%2C%20Fabinho%2C%20Bruno%20Guimaraes%2C%20Lucas%20Paqueta%2C%20Everton%20Ribeiro.%3Cbr%3E%3Cbr%3EForwards%3A%20Neymar%2C%20Vinicius%20Junior%2C%20Richarlison%2C%20Raphinha%2C%20Antony%2C%20Gabriel%20Jesus%2C%20Gabriel%20Martinelli%2C%20Pedro%2C%20Rodrygo%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
The specs
  • Engine: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
  • Power: 640hp
  • Torque: 760nm
  • On sale: 2026
  • Price: Not announced yet
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS

Estijaba – 8001717 –  number to call to request coronavirus testing

Ministry of Health and Prevention – 80011111

Dubai Health Authority – 800342 – The number to book a free video or voice consultation with a doctor or connect to a local health centre

Emirates airline – 600555555

Etihad Airways – 600555666

Ambulance – 998

Knowledge and Human Development Authority – 8005432 ext. 4 for Covid-19 queries

Updated: November 20, 2023, 10:02 AM