Energy & Mining

Côte d’Ivoire has made substantial efforts to increase generation capacity, upgrade infrastructure and expand the electricity network, translating into rising investment. The country is also diversifying the energy mix, which tradition¬ally relied on gas-fuelled and hydraulic power plants. The push into renewables could reshape the energy mix and reduce reliance on gas-fired energy. Additionally, a renewed interest for oil and gas exploration could place the country on the map of hydrocarbon producers. With a largely untapped mining potential, Côte d’Ivoire has become an exploration hotspot in West Africa. While gold remains the primary export, accelerated exploration is necessary to sustain growth. Recovering manganese prices are boosting output and the new focus on rare minerals is diversifying revenues. Effective implementation of the mining code will be key for medium-term growth and the continuance of investor confidence. This chapter contains interviews with Marc Alberola, CEO, Eranove; and Jeff Quartermaine, CEO, Perseus Mining.