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Batokunku Wind Power Plant
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The Batokunku Wind Power Plant is a pioneering renewable energy project located in the West Coast Region of The Gambia. Officially commissioned in 2009, it holds the distinction of being the first community-managed wind power initiative in West Africa. The facility features a single refurbished 150-kilowatt Nordtank wind turbine imported from Denmark, which was funded through a combination of private donations and local community efforts. This project has significantly transformed life in the village of Batokunku by providing a stable and independent source of electricity, which is particularly vital given the frequent power outages in the national grid. The generated power supports over 250 households, local schools, and small businesses, fostering economic growth and social development. Excess energy is occasionally fed into the national grid operated by NAWEC, showcasing a successful model for small-scale decentralized energy production. Today, the plant serves as a symbol of local empowerment and a practical case study for sustainable technology in developing nations.
- Location: Gambia
- Top sights: Franco Inn Arts Center · art village turning
- Nearby: Brufut (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 3 | 2 | 16 | 4 | 3 | 45 | 169 | 290 | 224 | 67 | 6 | 2 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Batokunku Wind Power Plant is a pioneering renewable energy project in Gambia, providing sustainable electricity to the village of Batokunku. It symbolizes the transition to clean energy and serves as a model for other rural communities.
Visiting
The wind turbines are clearly visible from the main road passing through the village. Access to the turbines is usually not possible, but the surrounding fields offer good viewpoints.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the hill west of the village, from which you can see all three wind turbines in a row. The beach road also features a nice view of the turbines with the ocean in the background.
Local products
The power plant itself produces electrical energy fed into local households. In Batokunku there are small shops selling solar-powered lamps and other eco-friendly products.
Active season
The wind turbines operate year-round, but the highest power production is achieved during the windy dry season from November to April. During this time the turbines are most active.
Nearby
Combine this visit with a beach day at the nearby Batokunku Beach, known for its tranquility and cleanliness. Also a trip to the Tanji Fish Market or the Bijilo Forest Park is worthwhile.
Geography
Facts
- Commissioned in 2009 as the first community wind project in the region.
- The facility uses a 150 kW refurbished Nordtank turbine from Denmark.
- Supplies electricity to more than 250 households in Batokunku village.
- Funded entirely by private donations and local community contributions.
- Recognized as the first community-run wind power plant in West Africa.
- Excess power is periodically fed into the national NAWEC power grid.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Batokunku Wind Power Plant (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Batokunku wind power plant?
It is West Africa's first community-based wind power project, providing Batokunku village with renewable electricity.
Can the facility be visited?
The windmill is visible from afar. For a detailed visit, you should ask in the village for those in charge of the project.
Who financed the project?
The project was privately initiated by a foreign couple and realized with the support of the village community.
Is there enough power for the whole village?
Yes, the plant provides enough power for basic needs, and surpluses are sometimes fed into the national grid.
Is there also solar power?
Many households in the area combine wind power with their own small solar systems for a stable supply.
Batokunku Wind Power Plant: where is it located?
Batokunku Wind Power Plant is located in Gambia.
Batokunku Wind Power Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Franco Inn Arts Center, art village turning.
Batokunku Wind Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Apr.
Batokunku Wind Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Batokunku Wind Power Plant is a pioneering renewable energy project located in the West Coast Region of The Gambia.
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Bakau
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Busumbala
Busumbala is a growing settlement in the West Coast Region, conveniently located on the main road to Brikama.
Brufut
Brufut is a coastal town known for its pristine beaches and the Brufut Woods, a paradise for birdwatchers.
Latri Kunda
Latri Kunda is a major neighborhood of Serekunda, known for its busy markets and as an important commercial hub.
Gunjur
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Manjai Kunda
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Dippa Kunda is a lively neighborhood of Serekunda, known for its large market and bustling streets.
Tallinding
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New Jeshwang is a densely populated residential neighborhood that developed from the expansion of Serekunda.
History & landmarks
More places
Tanje Village Museum
An open-air museum that vividly preserves traditional Gambian culture, craftsmanship, and natural history.
Tanji Fishing Beach
A bustling center of traditional fishing where hundreds of colorful pirogues land their catch daily.
Tanji Village Museum
An open-air museum vividly presenting the traditional Gambian way of life, architecture, and craftsmanship.
Tanji Bird Reserve
A coastal reserve encompassing various habitats such as dunes, lagoons, and dry forests.
Brufut Woods
An important forest area for bird conservation, home to many rare species.
Brufut Fish Landing Site
A significant transshipment point for coastal catches, known for the subsequent processing and drying of fish.
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Jambanjali Forest
A coastal forest park characterized by a mixture of dry forest and savanna elements.