A legally binding power purchase agreement (PPA) for the Selebi Phikwe solar PV facility with a contracted capacity of 50 megawatts, was inked between Scatec and the Botswana Power Corporation (BPC).
The project is fully owned by Scatec, a Norwegian company that specializes in renewable energy systems. The latter will also work as the asset manager, O&M contractor, and designated engineering, procurement, and construction company (EPC).
Scatec plans to build the solar facility in an old mining town in the country’s east, Selibe Phikwe. The Selebi Phikwe solar PV facility will make sure that about 48,000 tons of CO2 emissions are avoided. Also, it will ensure about 20,000 households are yearly powered.
A long-term debt financing plan for the construction of two solar PV plants in Botswana was announced by impact investor responsAbility Investments recently. Both Bobonong, Central District (3 MW), and Shakawe, North-West District, will see the construction of the projects (1 MW).
Selebi Phikwe solar PV facility in Botswana to contribute to Africa’s transition to green energy
For Sub-Saharan Africa’s transition to green energy as well as Botswana’s, this is an important development. With more than 3,200 hours of sunshine per year, Botswana has great potential for solar energy.
Also Read:Â Commitment to fund Bobonong and Shakawe solar power plants construction in Botswana
The country is home to 66% of Africa’s coal resources. It is clear that the country intends to drive the transition to renewable energy. South Africa, a neighboring country, has shown that transitioning to renewable sources can be both cheap and sustainable while also supporting global initiatives to minimize carbon emissions.
According to Botswana’s Vision 2036, renewable energy should be at 15% of the country’s energy mix by 2030 and 50% by 2036.
Scatec’s general manager for sub-Saharan Africa, Jan Fourie, noted they are pleased to have made a step with the BPC. He said that it shows that they are able to support Sub-Saharan Africa in achieving clean energy and infrastructure. He added that it is a major achievement for Botswanans.
