In a significant move to harness its abundant solar resources, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting expressions of interest from companies to provide training in solar panel production in Botswana. This initiative is a crucial step towards building local manufacturing capacity and accelerating the adoption of solar energy, aligning perfectly with the nation’s renewable energy ambitions. The deadline for submissions is November 15, 2024.
Boosting Local Manufacturing of Botswana solar battery projects
The UNDP’s call for expressions of interest (EOI) is a central part of the Solar Industry Development Project (SIDP), which itself is a key component of Botswana’s wider Solar Energy Development Programme (SEDP). This comprehensive programme is designed to foster local manufacturing and increase the use of solar power, steering Botswana’s economy toward a more sustainable, low-carbon future.
Led by Botswana’s Ministry of Minerals and Energy with support from the World Bank and the UNDP, the SEDP is a multi-faceted strategy. It focuses not only on developing utility-scale solar projects but also on cultivating the local skills and industrial base needed to support a thriving solar energy sector for years to come.
Capacity Building and Training for Botswana solar battery projects
The core objective of the SIDP is to enhance Botswana’s ability to produce solar photovoltaic (PV) system components domestically. This includes not just the solar panels themselves but also the essential balance of systems (BoS) components like mounting structures, cabling, and inverters. By localizing production, the project aims to create sustainable jobs, promote gender equality in a technical field, and directly contribute to the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
The UNDP’s request seeks service providers capable of delivering a robust training program covering the basics of solar panel manufacturing and design. The curriculum will be delivered in two phases: an initial phase of theoretical education within Botswana, followed by an immersive, hands-on practical training phase at established solar panel production facilities. This practical experience will give trainees direct exposure to the complex solar panel manufacturing process and the sophisticated solar panel manufacturing machines required for high-quality production.
Eligibility and Application Process for Botswana solar battery projects
The UNDP is encouraging a diverse range of organizations to submit expressions of interest. This includes non-governmental organizations (NGOs), non-profit entities, academic institutions, and specialized training centres.
To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate:
* A minimum of three years of experience in the design and manufacturing of solar PV system components.
* At least two years of proven experience in delivering training related to solar PV production.
Interested applicants are directed to apply through the official UNDP e-tendering system. All submissions must be received by the deadline of November 15, 2024.
Expanding Botswana’s Solar Energy Sector with Botswana solar battery projects
This training initiative is launched as Botswana makes significant strides in expanding its solar energy infrastructure. The Ministry of Minerals and Energy recently awarded contracts for the development of 12 solar power plants, which will add a combined 35 MW to the national grid. These projects are part of a broader national effort to dramatically increase the country’s renewable energy capacity from its current level of approximately 6 MW.
The government has set ambitious targets for its energy transition. By 2030, Botswana aims to have 430 MW of solar power capacity online, comprising 300 MW from large, utility-scale projects and 130 MW from smaller, decentralized installations.
The UNDP’s training programme is a strategic investment in the long-term health of Botswana’s solar industry. Developing local manufacturing capabilities—from sourcing solar panel raw materials to understanding the complete solar panel manufacturing plant cost breakdown—is fundamental. By training a skilled local workforce, Botswana can reduce its dependence on imported solar components, lower costs, and create a truly self-sustaining solar energy ecosystem.
If you are interested in deepening your own understanding of this industry, a great place to start is by exploring the fundamentals of solar manufacturing. To learn more about the technical and business aspects, consider enrolling in this free e-course on solar panel production.
