Visionary Reports

The agreement was arrived at in Douala on April 7

Prometal Group and the National Electricity Transmission Company (Sonatrel) formalized a significant agreement to enhance the industrial power supply. The agreement, signed in Douala on April 7. 2025 give Prometal Group access to reliable and increased electricity through the immediate provision of a 90/15 kV-50 MVA transformer station, followed by an additional 90/15 kV-75 MVA station in the coming months. These installations will position Prometal Group as the country’s second-largest electricity consumer, supporting its ongoing industrial expansion.Prometal Group, a leading metallurgical producer in the sub-region, is investing heavily in infrastructure modernization. This initiative follows the recent inauguration of two new factories in Douala, addressing the critical need for a stable power supply. Sonatrel, through a competitive tender, awarded the project to the City Centre/Alliances Services/Coget Sarl consortium for the design, supply, and installation of the transformer stations, totaling approximately 4.3 billion FCFA.Speaking at the signing ceremony, Prometal Group CEO, Hayssam El Jammal, expressed enthusiasm for the enhanced energy security, acknowledging the government’s support in driving the group’s expansion plans. He highlighted the upcoming Kribi plant, which will increase the group’s energy demand to over 60 megawatts. These investments are projected to boost Prometal’s annual steel production from 360,000 to 600,000 metric tons, and Progaz Unit’s gas cylinder and metal structure output to 600,000 units annually. This growth aims to meet domestic demand, reduce imports, and prepare for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).Sonatrel CEO, Victor Mbetmi Nyanga, emphasized the company’s commitment to optimizing resources and expanding industrial electricity capacity. He announced a comprehensive investment plan of over 33 billion CFA francs, including new transformer stations in Douala-Logbaba, Bekoko, Koumassi, Bafoussam, Yaoundé, Garoua, and other locations nationwide.

Energy and Industrialization: A Shared Vision

Water and Energy Minister, Gaston Eloundou Essomba, underscored the critical link between stable energy access and industrial development, echoing the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive investment environment. He highlighted the agreement’s strategic importance for Prometal Group, the second-largest industrial energy consumer in Cameroon, with a current demand of 45.5 MW.It is worth noting that the he agreement offers Prometal Group improved service quality, competitive rates, and direct negotiation with producers, while Sonatrel expands its customer base and strengthens its financial capacity. The government, in collaboration with the World Bank, will also build a new 75 MVA transformer substation at the Prometal site and expand the Logbaba substation to further enhance the Douala industrial zone’s power supply.Minister Essomba reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring reliable energy access for industrial growth and outlined ongoing projects, including the integration of Nachtigal’s energy into the Douala grid and the strengthening of existing networks. Prometal Group’s strategic investments in energy infrastructure reinforce its position as a sub-regional leader and contribute significantly to Cameroon’s industrial advancement.