CPCS behind US$800M PPP contract for seawater desalination project in Senegal
West Africa’s largest renewable-powered desalination facility is expected to be operational by 2031, delivering fresh water to Dakar and surrounding communities.
Africa’s PPP advisor
At the heart of this landmark public-private partnership contract is CPCS, a global infrastructure advisory firm, which served as the legal and transaction advisor to the Senegalese government. CPCS played a central role in structuring the PPP and securing the agreement between the National Water Company of Senegal (SONES) and ACWA Power, a private operator backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
The project is more than a technical feat. It’s a strategic pivot for Senegal, a country where rapid urbanization and climate variability have strained freshwater resources. The Greater Dakar region, home to nearly a third of the population and over half of the country’s economic activity, has long outgrown its water supply.
The Grande-Côte plant is designed to meet this challenge head-on.
This is more than a water project. It’s a blueprint for how African nations can leverage global partnerships to meet critical infrastructure needs.
The Grande-Côte plant will likely set the path for other water PPPs in Africa, combining environmental stewardship with economic ambition.
Project highlights
- Location: Facility will be situated on the Grande-Côte which is a stretch of coastline north of Dakar
- Desalination capacity: Will produce 400,000 cubic meters/day of fresh water (approximately the equivalent of 160 Olympic pools/day), delivered in two phases of 200,000 m³/day
- Laws: Project aligns with Senegal’s PPP decree
- Energy: The facility will be powered by 300 megawatts of solar energy sourced through a dedicated agreement with Senegal’s state-owned utility SENELEC
- PPP model: Inclusion of a clause in the renegotiated contract encouraging the private partner to develop partnerships with vocational training centers, or to establish a dedicated training institute in Senegal, with the aim of replicating similar PPP models across West Africa
Background information
What does this successful PPP deal represents for CPCS?
It highlights our firm’s commitment for water security, sustainable development, and infrastructure that can impact people’s lives positively — particularly in Africa and beyond.
What was the role of CPCS in this water desalination project?
CPCS served as the legal advisor to Senegal’s national water company, SONES, providing legal expertise throughout the structuring and negotiation of the US$800 million PPP contract with ACWA Power. CPCS supported the development of the legal framework and agreements, including the PPP contract.
What expertise did CPCS bring to this PPP deal?
CPCS mobilized its in-house capabilities — legal, strategic, commercial, technical, economics, analytical, governance, and financial — within a single integrated project team to support the delivery of this seawater desalination project.
How is CPCS adding value to PPP projects?
CPCS combines diverse expertise within a project team needed for bankable and sustainable projects that meet the needs of governments, private operators, and investors.
Who to contact for more information about this project?
CPCS Vice President, Africa: Romain Frandji. Contact him at communications@cpcs.ca.
