Botswana is aiming to add 1.5 GW of solar power by 2030 to decrease its reliance on coal and enhance energy security. The country’s electricity generation is currently dominated by coal, which accounts for over 90% of its energy mix.
Major Botswana solar power projects driving energy transformation
Botswana has announced ambitious plans to develop 1.5 GW of solar power projects by 2030, marking a significant step towards reducing its reliance on coal. The country is currently accepting expressions of interest to build solar plants with capacities of 1,000 MW and 500 MW.
These projects will be developed on a build-own-operate-transfer (BOOT) basis, with the selected developers owning and operating the plants for 25 years before transferring ownership to the government. This initiative is part of Botswana’s broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and enhance energy security. For more insights into Botswana’s solar manufacturing potential, you can explore this report.
Botswana’s shift towards solar power is driven by its heavy reliance on coal, which currently accounts for over 90% of the country’s electricity generation. The African Development Bank (AfDB) recently approved a $152 million loan for the 100 MW Selebi Phikwe solar project, underscoring the country’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity.
The Selebi Phikwe project is expected to play a pivotal role in Botswana’s energy transition, contributing to its goal of achieving 30% renewable energy in its power generation mix by 2030.
Botswana solar power potential amid coal dependency
Despite its abundant solar resources, Botswana’s electricity generation is still predominantly coal-based. The country currently has no utility-scale solar capacity, with all power generation coming from the 600 MW Morupule B coal-fired power plant. This dependence on coal has raised concerns about energy security, especially given the frequent breakdowns at Morupule B.
To address these challenges, Botswana has set ambitious targets to diversify its energy mix. The construction of the Selebi Phikwe solar project is expected to significantly improve the country’s energy security by reducing its dependence on coal and lowering electricity imports from neighboring countries.
Botswana’s push for solar power is also part of its broader strategy to enhance energy security and create jobs. The Selebi Phikwe project is expected to generate approximately 700 jobs during construction and 30 permanent jobs during operation. The project will also include a battery energy storage system (BESS), which will further enhance the reliability of the country’s power supply.
Botswana solar power and renewable energy targets for 2030
Botswana’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its goal of achieving 30% renewable energy in its power generation mix by 2030. The addition of 1.5 GW of solar capacity will play a crucial role in meeting this target and reducing the country’s reliance on coal.
The development of solar power projects in Botswana is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy and environment. By reducing its dependence on coal, Botswana will be able to lower its carbon emissions and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.
For further insights on how solar energy projects are transforming energy landscapes globally, you can check out other international solar projects.