Plizio Visual Lab

Félou Hydroelectric Plant

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

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The Félou Hydroelectric Plant, located on the Senegal River near the city of Kayes, is a vital power generation facility within the OMVS regional network, harnessing the hydraulic energy of the Félou Falls. Completed in 2013, this modern 60 MW plant replaced an outdated colonial-era installation, marking a significant upgrade in Mali's renewable energy infrastructure. As a run-of-river facility, it utilizes the river's natural flow to power three large Kaplan turbines, which are specifically designed for high-volume, low-head water conditions. This design minimizes environmental impact as it does not require a large-scale reservoir, maintaining the natural rhythm of the Senegal River. The project was a key component of the West African Power Pool (WAPP) initiative, receiving significant support from the World Bank to alleviate regional electricity shortages. Today, Félou supplies reliable power to the national grids of Mali, Senegal, and Mauritania, playing a crucial role in supporting the booming gold mining sector in western Mali. Its successful operation serves as a blueprint for sustainable hydropower development in sub-Saharan Africa, combining international financing with advanced Chinese construction expertise to provide affordable energy to one of the continent's most dynamic industrial corridors.

Location: Mali
Nearby: Kayes (10 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	24	28	31	34	36	33	29	28	28	28	27	25
Rain mm	1	0	1	1	13	65	166	250	171	39	2	0

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Félou Hydroelectric Plant on the Senegal River is a historic, recently modernized run-of-river facility producing clean energy for Mali. It plays a key role in regional electricity supply and sustainable development.

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Visiting

The plant is typically not open to the public, but the exterior grounds and the dam are visible from nearby paths. Occasionally, guided tours for groups are offered and must be arranged in advance.

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Where to view it

The best public viewpoint is the bridge downstream or the right riverbank, offering a full view of the dam. From the hills on the Malian side, a panoramic view of the reservoir unfolds.

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Local products

No direct products from the plant are sold in the region, but the reservoir supports fishing. Local markets offer fresh fish, especially tilapia and Nile perch.

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Active season

The plant operates year-round, but power generation depends on the Senegal River's water level. Production peaks during the rainy season (July to October) and drops during the dry season.

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Nearby

A visit to the plant can be combined with the city of Kayes, known for its colonial architecture and railway station. The nearby Félou waterfall area gives pleasant nature trails.