Côte d’Ivoire removes taxes on solar equipment to boost self production

The government of Côte d’Ivoire removed customs duties and value added tax on solar equipment to lower costs for consumers.

Siriki Gnigbognima, the director of energy mastery, announced these measures during a training workshop in Abidjan. The changes appear in the 2024 fiscal annex to help households and businesses invest in solar power. Under these rules, only community taxes remain, which Gnigbognima stated account for just 2 percent of the cost.

The government also introduced a regulatory text that authorizes electricity self-production. This move addresses consumer concerns that they needed to be connected to the national grid to install solar panels. To simplify the process, officials integrated an online platform for the foreign trade market where users can submit requests for tax exemptions. Gnigbognima noted that the ministry cannot control maritime transport costs, as these prices are set by shipping companies.

He also warned about a lack of qualifications among some solar installers and suppliers. To address this, the government plans to issue licenses to qualified professionals and will soon publish a list of approved installers similar to the list for certified energy auditors.