Renewable energies : Ivory Coast exempts imported products and equipment from taxes

This decree, in application of directive n°02/2022/CM/Uemoa, offers tax and customs exemptions to companies that import, manufacture or use renewable energy equipment. These measures facilitate access to green technologies while reducing costs, which represents a real opportunity for companies in the sector. One of the central aspects of this decree is the exemption of several categories of renewable energy equipment from VAT, customs duties and bank transaction tax. These incentives cover a wide range of technologies that can help make energy installations more efficient and sustainable.

The equipment concerned

Photovoltaic solar panels, which are modules that convert sunlight into electricity; inverters, which are devices that transform the electricity generated by solar panels into usable alternating current; energy storage batteries (lithium or AGM batteries, which store excess energy generated by solar panels for later use) voltage regulators, which are devices used to stabilize electrical voltage in renewable installations; biogas digesters, which produce biogas from organic waste, offering an environmentally-friendly alternative to fossil gas; and hydroelectric systems.

For SMEs, these include lightning conductors and surge protectors for solar installations (devices to protect installations against lightning and power surges, essential for securing solar equipment); solar cables (used to connect solar panels to converters or batteries, guaranteeing optimum performance in photovoltaic installations); control and protection cabinets (to secure and manage renewable energy installations).

An advantage for investors

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a key target of this decree, particularly those looking to reduce their energy bills or invest in green infrastructure. Tax exemptions lower the barrier to entry for adopting renewable energy technologies, previously perceived as costly. For SME managers, this means easier access to these technologies at a reduced cost. This can result in a direct reduction in operating costs (electricity, heating) or help to position the company as a greener player.

This decree opens up new market opportunities for suppliers and distributors of green equipment, and for companies operating in the distribution or manufacture of renewable equipment. With lower import and manufacturing costs, demand for this green equipment should increase, enabling local companies to position themselves in this booming sector.