According to recent reports, Globeleq has missed the scheduled start of construction for the 120-MW Namaacha wind power plant. The investor firm, one of the largest in Mozambique’s energy production sector, had planned for construction in the second half of this year. The reason behind the delay remains unknown, and there has been no issue of a new timeline highlighting the start of construction. The endeavour is a multi-billion-dollar investment from a partnership between Globeleq and the Mozambican government. The construction’s commencement was confirmed in May of this year by President Filipe Nyusi. The British High Commissioner was also present in the conference in Maputo. This was during the Mozambique Energy and Mining Conference and Exhibition. At that time, the only obstacle noted was the need to finalize certain details.
The Significance of the 120-MW Namaacha Wind Power Plant
The Namaacha wind power plant, with an estimated cost of $270 million, is expected to increase energy exported by the Electricidade de Mocambique (EDM). This will enable the company to benefit from higher energy prices in the region while also supplying the growing domestic market. Of the total expenditure budgeted, $230 million is allocated for the plant’s power generation. On the other hand, the remaining amount will be used to construct a 40-kilometre transmission line connecting Namaacha and Boane districts. Earlier this year, Globeleq’s director of development and business, Samir Sale, assured the project’s viability.
He noted that the project was in its final phases of finalizing and that construction could begin between the second and third quarters of 2024. However, sources close to the company have noted that this particular timeline has been delayed. The plant’s construction was expected to take two years, and operations were set for 2026. With recent developments, the timeline will now need to be adjusted due to the intended commencement period being missed. According to Globeleq, this will be the country’s first large-scale wind power plant, designed to produce 120 MW.
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The government’s decision in implementing the Namaacha wind power plant confirms its potential to leverage clean energy. The ambitious project aligns with the government’s energy transition strategy, aiming to generate clean energy using renewable sources. They also hope it will meet peak demands and capitalize on regional energy demands. The partnership between Globeleq, the government and other entities such as the AfDb showcases Africa’s need for renewable energy. Renewable energy currently accounts for 70% of the national energy matrix in the region. Recently, approximately 55 MW were added to the national grid through the Cuamba power plant (15 MW) and the Mocuba power plant (40 MW). It also supports the use of sustainable energy sources.
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