BOTSWANA GOES SOLAR: 100MW MMADINARE PROJECT LAUNCHED
Botswana Power Corporation (BPC), in collaboration with Scatec, a Norwegian solar energy company, has unveiled the Mmadinare Solar Cluster, a project set to generate 100MW of clean solar power for Botswana’s energy needs.
The project marks Botswana’s inaugural utilityscale grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) initiative, strategically poised to bolster the nation’s growing energy demands. When officiating at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Mmadinare solar cluster President Mokgweetsi Masisi said that the project will help enhance electricity supply and diversify the country’s energy sources. Given Botswana’s geographical location, the President emphasised that the nation boasts to be among countries with the highest levels of irradiation globally, having abundant hours of sunshine annually.
“Our goal is to harness this resource (sunshine) through technology and transform it into a valuable product that will benefit the people of Botswana,” President Masisi said. Under a 25-year power purchase agreement, Scatec will spearhead the construction of the solar PV project, aligning with Botswana’s aspirations to become a net electricity exporter and attaining energy self-sufficiency.
Additionally, President Masisi said that Botswana intends to transition from coal-fired electricity generation to a new generation mix comprising renewable and non-renewable energy sources.
In his remarks, the Minister of Minerals and Energy, Honorable Lefoko Moagi commended the project sponsors, Scatec ASA, for achieving the financial closure of the first utility-scale gridconnected renewable energy project. “This is a major achievement as it serves as a reference for other Independent Power Producers (IPP) projects which are still to secure funding,” he said.
Minister Moagi added that the financial closure of the project, demonstrates investor and financier’s confidence in Botswana, an investment destination of choice. In his closing remarks, Minister Moagi said; “To the Mmadinare community, I say congratulations for being the first community to host a utility-scale grid-connected solar PV project in the country, this is your project. Your cooperation and support during the construction and operation phase of the project is key to ensuring the success of the project and the benefits thereof.”
BPC CEO Mr. David Kgoboko, echoed President Masisi’s sentiments that the project aligns with Botswana’s goal of becoming a net exporter of electricity. Acknowledging the collaborative effort behind the project, Kgoboko thanked the government for supporting the initiative. He elaborated that the first phase of the project entails designing, funding, building, operating, and maintaining a 50 MW solar photovoltaic plant. The first phase is slated for completion by January 2025 while the second phase which will deliver another 50 MW will be completed six months later.
Scatec CEO, Mr Terje Pilskog highlighted the company’s extensive experience in renewable energy projects globally. He expressed confidence in the company’s ability to deliver the Mmadinare project successfully. “One of our largest construction projects to date, a 4.5-gigawatt project in South Africa is currently operational. By starting this project, we are laying the groundwork for resolving Botswan’s energy challenges,” he said. Mr Pilskog emphasized the project’s broader impact, stating, “This initiative is not just about addressing climate change; it’s about promoting economic expansion, job creation, and improved living standards.” The Mmadinare Solar Cluster does not only represent a milestone in Botswana’s transition towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. It also sets a powerful example for renewable energy adoption across the African continent and beyond.