Burundi’s Major Energy Milestone: Jiji Hydroelectric Power Project
Burundi has officially launched the Jiji Hydroelectric Power Plant, inaugurated by President Evariste Ndayishimiye. This facility, located in Songa Commune, Bururi Province, boasts a capacity of 32.5 MW and was constructed with an investment of $270 million, largely funded by the World Bank and other international partners.
Power Generation and Impact of Jiji Hydroelectric Power
The Jiji Hydroelectric Power Plant stands as one of the largest energy projects in Burundi’s history, with its 32.5 MW capacity. Commissioned on September 12, 2023, President Ndayishimiye heralded it as a significant achievement for the nation.
Situated in the Songa Commune of Bururi Province, the plant was built by a consortium of Chinese companies, including JIANGSU ETERN and SINOHYDRO. The project, completed over several years, represents a milestone in Burundi’s energy sector.
Operating as a run-of-river power station, the plant harnesses the natural flow of the Jiji River to generate electricity. It is poised to play a crucial role in addressing Burundi’s energy deficit, a persistent challenge for the country.
International Collaboration Behind Jiji Hydroelectric Power
The construction of the Jiji Hydroelectric Power Plant was a result of international collaboration, with funding from several organizations, including the World Bank, the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the African Development Bank (AfDB).
Together, these institutions provided a combined total of $270 million in financing. The World Bank contributed $100 million, while the EIB and AfDB provided $90 million and $80 million, respectively.
During the commissioning ceremony, President Ndayishimiye expressed his gratitude to these international partners, emphasizing their vital support in bringing the project to fruition. He highlighted the plant’s potential to significantly boost Burundi’s energy capacity and contribute to the nation’s development.
Economic and Social Benefits of Jiji Hydroelectric Power
The Jiji Hydroelectric Power Plant is expected to yield several economic and social benefits for Burundi. Primarily, it will reduce the country’s dependence on costly and environmentally harmful diesel generators, which have long been the primary electricity source.
By offering a more sustainable and cost-effective power source, the plant will potentially lower electricity costs for consumers and businesses. This reduction could stimulate economic growth by making it more affordable for businesses to operate and expand.
In addition to economic benefits, the plant will positively impact the environment. Hydroelectric power is a renewable energy source that produces no greenhouse gas emissions, presenting a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels.
The project also promises job creation and infrastructure improvement in the surrounding area. During construction, hundreds of local workers found employment, providing much-needed job opportunities. Now operational, the plant will continue to support jobs in maintenance and operations.
Future Energy Projects Following Jiji Hydroelectric Power
The commissioning of the Jiji Hydroelectric Power Plant is just one of several energy projects Burundi has on the horizon. The government is also working on the nearby Mulembwe Hydroelectric Power Plant, expected to add an additional 16.5 MW of capacity to the national grid.
Together, the Jiji and Mulembwe plants will significantly increase Burundi’s total installed capacity, helping meet the country’s growing electricity demand. The government is also exploring other renewable energy projects, including solar and wind power, as part of its long-term energy strategy.
President Ndayishimiye has made energy development a priority for his administration, recognizing its importance for economic growth and poverty reduction. The successful commissioning of the Jiji Hydroelectric Power Plant demonstrates the government’s commitment to expanding access to electricity and improving the quality of life for all Burundians.
