Socadel opens CFA52.6bn fuel tenders for 33 power plants

Cameroon’s electricity company Socadel has launched two fuel tenders with a combined estimated value of CFA52.622 billion, including taxes, to supply 33 thermal plants. Dated October 13 and published by the procurement regulator on October 19, they concern planned purchases rather than completed spending. The CFA36.715 billion heavy-fuel-oil tender covers Limbé, Dibamba, Oyomabang and Logbaba. It provides for 35,327 to 70,653 tonnes over 15 months, financed from the 2026 and 2027 budgets. A separate CFA15.907 billion diesel tender covers 29 plants in seven lots, with approximately 8.94 million to 17.87 million litres to be delivered within four months. Djamboutou, Guider, Kousseri and Maroua account for CFA9.519 billion of the diesel estimate. Diesel suppliers must finance procurement and delivery without an advance. Heavy-fuel bidders need at least CFA5 billion in financing capacity and a permanent inventory of 4,000 tonnes. Actual orders will follow plant requirements. Bids close November 3, at 1 p.m. for diesel and 2 p.m. for heavy fuel oil. The diesel framework is due to run for four months using the 2026 budget, while heavy fuel oil purchases span 15 months and the 2026–2027 budgets. Diesel suppliers must fund purchase, storage, transport and delivery without an advance from Socadel. Heavy fuel bidders must demonstrate at least CFA5 billion in financing capacity, average annual revenue of CFA10 billion over three audited years and a permanent 4,000-tonne inventory. Bids are due November 3: 1 p.m. for diesel and 2 p.m. for heavy fuel oil. These conditions describe a competition, not awarded supply contracts. Nexus analysis: Supplier financing and actual purchase orders will determine execution; tender ceilings should not be presented as fuel already delivered or spending already incurred.