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.
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
BACK%20TO%20ALEXANDRIA
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Company%C2%A0profile
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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
Mohammed bin Zayed Majlis
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
BRAZIL%20SQUAD
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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