A first-of-its-kind platform at WAPECC25, the Utilities Esplanade is where national utilities from across ECOWAS will present their most pressing priorities and investment-ready projects. Designed to catalyse partnerships, this space puts utilities at the forefront of the region’s energy transformation—and gives private sector players direct access to opportunities.

Entrepreneurs and SMEs are shaping the future of clean energy across West Africa—but too often, they face barriers to visibility, financing, and mentorship. The WAPECC25 Impact Starter Platform, sponsored by ECREEE, GIZ, and the Ministry of Energy of Benin, gives regional innovators a powerful opportunity: pitch your solution, access mentorship, and compete to win the Most Innovative Regional SME Prize at WAPECC25.

Step out of the venue and into the field—join the WAPECC25 Site Visit for a rare opportunity to witness West Africa’s energy transformation in action. This guided, expert-led tour will take you behind the scenes of innovative power projects and strategic infrastructure sites in the host country, offering a firsthand look at the progress, challenges, and partnerships driving the region forward.