Industrial company Multiprint has launched the installation of a 750 kWh solar power plant made up of more than 1,200 photovoltaic panels, representing a total investment of CFA432 million, Investir au Cameroun has learned. The project is financed through a lease arrangement with CFAO, based on a monthly payment of CFA3.6 million over ten years, a structure designed to spread investment costs while preserving the company’s cash flow.
According to the company, the move into solar energy follows issues observed over several years. Multiprint said it regularly faced voltage fluctuations and unplanned power outages that directly affected its operations and the reliability of its equipment, disrupting production. A source said a detailed review of energy costs over the past five years showed a continuous and structural rise in electricity expenses, which served as the main trigger for the investment decision.
These disruptions forced the company to rely frequently on diesel generators, at an annual fuel cost estimated at around CFA150 million. Multiprint also estimates that 40% of its annual production waste, valued at about CFA400 million, or roughly CFA160 million, was directly linked to power outages. Its production fleet of around 60 machines generates annual maintenance costs of about CFA500 million, with around 20% attributed to electrical problems such as breakdowns, premature wear, and unplanned shutdowns. These pressures are compounded by an average annual increase of about 5% in electricity costs.
Expected gains
Although the solar plant is not yet operational, Multiprint expects improved production continuity, greater power stability, fewer losses linked to unplanned stoppages, reduced production waste, and lower reliance on diesel generators. As a result, the company anticipates a significant reduction in operating costs, maintenance expenses, and production losses.
Multiprint estimates a return on investment of about five years, based on cumulative savings in energy, fuel, and maintenance. Management said the project is part of a broader sustainable development strategy and is expected to save several tons of CO₂ emissions each year, contributing to climate action and the development of a green economy.
Amina Malloum
