Plizio Visual Lab
Sendou Power Plant
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Industrial site
The Sendou coal-fired power plant in Bargny is among Senegal's most controversial infrastructure projects. With an installed capacity of 125 megawatts, it was constructed to address the country's chronic energy shortages and provide a low-cost baseload supply. The facility utilizes imported coal, which stands in stark contrast to national ambitions to increase the share of renewable energy. Since planning began in 2008, the project has faced massive resistance from the local population due to its proximity to residential areas and traditional fish processing sites. Environmentalists warn of air pollution and the detrimental effects of cooling water discharge on the marine ecosystem. Despite various technical setbacks and prolonged legal battles, the plant was commissioned, yet it remains a potent symbol of the tension between industrial advancement and environmental preservation in modern Senegal.
- Location: Senegal
- Top sights: Bargny, Senegal · Sendou power station
- Nearby: Rufisque (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 21 | 90 | 202 | 171 | 49 | 4 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Sendou Power Plant is a major and widely discussed industrial facility in Senegal, originally planned as a coal-fired plant to provide essential baseload electricity for the nation's growing energy demands.
Visiting
Access to the interior of the power plant is strictly prohibited for the general public due to safety, security, and operational regulations. Only authorized technicians and management staff are typically allowed on the premises.
Where to view it
The sprawling infrastructure, including large smokestacks and industrial buildings, can generally be seen from a distance along the main roads connecting Bargny and Sendou, as well as from certain coastal vantage points.
Local products
The immediate vicinity is industrial, but local street vendors and small shops in the adjacent communities of Bargny may offer traditional Senegalese meals, snacks, and daily necessities intended for the local workforce.
Active season
Industrial sites of this scale are generally active year-round, with daytime being the most visible period for staff movements, maintenance work, and heavy transport associated with the plant's operations.
Nearby
Visitors exploring this part of the Cap-Vert peninsula often combine the journey with a trip to the bustling capital of Dakar or a relaxing excursion southward toward the tourist destinations of the Petite Côte.
Geography
Facts
- The plant's gross installed capacity is 125 MW.
- The African Development Bank provided significant funding for construction.
- The project is located only about 500 meters from residential areas.
- Planning for the power station dates back to 2008.
- It represents the first major coal-fired power plant in the country.
- The facility employs a seawater cooling system for its operations.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Sendou Power Plant (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Sendou power plant?
An important thermal power plant for energy production for the greater Dakar area.
Can one visit the power plant?
No, as a closed industrial facility, it is not open to visitor traffic.
Why is Sendou important economically?
It secures the base load of energy supply for industry and private households in the capital region.
What is there to do around Sendou?
The area is characterized by the coast; you can find beaches and local markets there.
How is the security in this area?
The area is generally safe; the usual caution in urban environments is appropriate.
Sendou Power Plant: where is it located?
Sendou Power Plant is located in Senegal.
Sendou Power Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bargny, Senegal, Sendou power station.
Sendou Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Sendou Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Sendou coal-fired power plant in Bargny is among Senegal's most controversial infrastructure projects.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in Senegal →
Nearby cities
Dakar
The vibrant capital of Senegal is located on the Cap-Vert peninsula and serves as the political and economic center of the country.
Pikine
The largest suburb of Dakar, which became one of the most densely populated zones due to rapid population growth.
Rufisque
A historic port city near Dakar that played a key role in the peanut export during the colonial era.
Somone
A peaceful resort town set by a beautiful lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary and relaxed beach-side bars.
History & landmarks
Abdoulaye Wade Stadium
An ultramodern sports stadium in Diamniadio, opened in 2022, seating up to 50,000 spectators.
Dakar Arena
A multi-purpose indoor arena in Diamniadio, used primarily for basketball and other major events.
Diamniadio Ministerial Spheres
A modern government complex in the new city of Diamniadio, housing several Senegalese ministries in futuristic buildings.
Memorial of the Martyrs of Thiaroye
A memorial commemorating the massacre of West African Tirailleurs by French forces in 1944 at Thiaroye.
Great Mosque of Guédiawaye
An impressive and architecturally significant mosque in Guédiawaye, one of the most densely populated suburbs of Dakar.
🗺️
Dakar City Hall
A notable colonial-era building in Dakar, serving as the seat of the municipal government.
National Grand Theatre
The Grand Théâtre National Doudou Ndiaye Rose in Dakar is one of the largest cultural centers in West Africa.
Kermel Market
A historic market in downtown Dakar, housed in a striking round building from the colonial era.
Nature
More places
Sendou Mineral Port
A new port being developed specifically for the export of bulk goods such as ores and minerals.
🗺️
Mbao forest area
An important forest belt near the capital Dakar.
🗺️
Diamniadio Industrial Park
A special economic zone designed to attract investors and promote industrialization.
SOCOCIM Cement Factory
The SOCOCIM plant in Rufisque is one of the largest cement producers in West Africa.
Port of Rufisque
A historic port that was once the center of Senegalese peanut exports before Dakar gained importance.
Old Town of Rufisque
A port town that was once a major center for the peanut trade and has old warehouses.
Cap des Biches Power Station
The Cap des Biches thermal power station in Rufisque is a major source of electricity for Dakar.
🗺️
Mbao Forest
An important forest area near Dakar, important for recreation.