Togo’s national electricity provider, the Togolese Electricity Company (CEET), has announced a period of intermittent power supply interruptions across the entire country, effective from August 28 through September 21, 2026. The disruptions are tied to scheduled maintenance work on the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), a critical piece of regional energy infrastructure.
In an official statement, CEET explained that the maintenance is necessary but will strain the country’s ability to maintain a steady electricity supply. To mitigate the impact, the company plans to rely on liquid fuels, a more expensive alternative, to keep the grid running as much as possible. Despite these contingency measures, CEET cautioned that occasional outages may still occur during the announced period.
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What This Means for Consumers
For households and businesses across Togo, the announcement signals a period of uncertainty. Power interruptions, even if intermittent, can disrupt daily routines, affect small businesses, and pose risks to sensitive electronic equipment. CEET is urging customers to take precautions, specifically recommending that they unplug electrical appliances during interruptions to prevent potential damage from voltage fluctuations when power is restored.
This advice is particularly important for those with expensive electronics or appliances that are sensitive to power surges. The company’s guidance reflects a practical approach to minimizing the secondary effects of the outages.
Context and Broader Implications
The West African Gas Pipeline is a key piece of infrastructure that supplies natural gas to several countries in the region, including Togo. Its maintenance is essential for long-term reliability, but the short-term consequences are being felt by consumers. The decision to switch to liquid fuels, while costly, underscores the importance CEET places on maintaining some level of service during the maintenance window.
For businesses that rely on a consistent power supply, the next few weeks may require contingency planning. The financial impact of the higher fuel costs is not detailed in the announcement, but it is a factor that could influence future electricity pricing or operational decisions.
Looking Ahead
As the maintenance work progresses, CEET will likely provide updates on the status of the grid and any changes to the outage schedule. In the meantime, consumers are advised to stay informed and follow the company’s safety recommendations. The period from late August to late September will be a test of the country’s energy resilience and the effectiveness of the mitigation measures in place.
Source: Togo – La CEET annonce des coupures jusqu’au 21 septembre