Madagascar’s Volobe Dam: A 120 MW Leap Toward Energy Independence

Madagascar is on the brink of a power revolution. A consortium of EDF Renewables, AXIAN Group, and Africa50 has inked a deal to build the Volobe hydroelectric dam near Tamatave—a 120 MW project poised to reshape the island nation’s energy landscape. Slated for commissioning in late 2030, the dam will generate 750 GWh annually, covering roughly a third of Madagascar’s current electricity demand while slashing reliance on fossil fuels.

Powering Progress—and Decarbonization

The Volobe dam isn’t just about megawatts; it’s a strategic play for stability. With Madagascar’s grid chronically undersupplied, the project promises to deliver competitive electricity to state utility JIRAMA, reaching approximately 2 million people. “This isn’t just infrastructure—it’s a catalyst for economic resilience,” says an industry insider familiar with the deal. The dam aligns with global decarbonization goals, offsetting an estimated 600,000 tons of CO₂ annually by displacing diesel generation.

This isn’t just infrastructure—it’s a catalyst for economic resilience.

Who’s Backing the Build?

The $400 million+ project leans on a rare trifecta of support: the Malagasy government, international donors, and a World Bank partial risk guarantee. Ownership splits between EDF Renewables and AXIAN (37.5% each) and Africa50 (25%), with EDF steering technical execution—from feasibility studies to grid integration. Crucially, the partners vow adherence to stringent environmental and social safeguards, a nod to Madagascar’s biodiversity hotspots and vulnerable communities.

The Long Road to 2030

Timelines are aggressive. Seven years stand between today and the dam’s first electrons, but the payoff could redefine Madagascar’s energy sovereignty. Rising demand—driven by urbanization and industrialization—makes Volobe’s output indispensable. Meanwhile, unrelated energy headlines (like Germany’s 960 MW EnBW He Dreiht offshore wind farm) underscore how Global South projects like Volobe are closing the clean-energy gap.

For now, all eyes are on Tamatave. If successful, Volobe won’t just power homes—it could electrify Madagascar’s future.