Cameroon faces worse power outages in 2027 ⁰

Cameroon faces a risk of more severe power outages starting in 2027 unless the government acts quickly to increase electricity generation capacity. National Assembly Speaker Théodore Datouo issued the warning on November 10 in Yaoundé, at the opening of Parliament’s third ordinary session, which will focus primarily on the 2027 national budget.

“Our country may face a significant shortfall in electricity generation relative to demand as early as 2027, with the risk of more severe power outages if the necessary measures are not taken in time. We must therefore act ahead of the problem,” he said.

His warning is consistent with forecasts prepared for the 2027 budget. According to figures from the general report on the 2027–2029 budget planning conferences, cited by Sika Finance on October 30, Cameroon’s electricity generation shortfall may reach 125 MW in 2027 and 450 MW in 2028. These projections depend on how electricity demand develops and whether the additional generation capacity is commissioned as scheduled.

To prevent such shortages, Datouo urged the government to speed up upgrades to existing power plants, modernize electricity networks and add generation capacity that can come online quickly. He specifically cited the emergency solar power program and the extension of the Kribi gas-fired power plant. Both projects, he said, require a thorough assessment of their financing needs and implementation schedules. In late September 2026, the Ministry of Water and Energy announced preparations for a 200 MW emergency solar power program, with implementation expected to begin in 2027. The government is also examining options to increase output at the Kribi gas-fired power plant. Progress on both projects will depend on available financing and the pace of construction.

“The 2027 budget must reflect this urgency through clear choices and resources commensurate with the needs,” Datouo stressed. The National Assembly speaker also pointed out that investments already made in the electricity sector, including the commissioning of the Nachtigal hydroelectric plant, have not eliminated power outages or voltage fluctuations. These disruptions affect businesses, some of which must rely on generators to continue operating, adding fuel and maintenance costs.

Financial difficulties compound the problems of electricity generation and distribution. Datouo raised concerns about loan repayments and the difficulties faced by the Cameroon Electricity Company (Socadel), formerly Eneo, in paying electricity producers and the transmission operator. Unpaid bills weaken the cash flow of these companies and may require financial intervention from the government. The speaker also warned that unreliable electricity supplies threaten access to drinking water. Water treatment and pumping stations need a steady power supply to operate. “If nothing is done, far too many families risk facing a double hardship: water outages on top of power cuts,” he said.

His warning comes after President Paul Biya’s October 12 circular on preparations for the 2027 budget identified stronger electricity supply and the restoration of financial stability in the power sector as priorities. Addressing lawmakers, Datouo stressed that these commitments must produce concrete results. “The people do not just expect budgets to be passed. They expect projects to be properly executed,” he said.

Source: Sbbc