- Tsaone Segaetsho
President Mokgweetsi Masisi stated that the government is fast-tracking the adoption of renewable and clean energy by 2036, as part of efforts to reduce energy-related atmospheric emissions.
Masisi said this while delivering the keynote address at the occasion of Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) entering into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with China Harbour Engineering Consortium to develop a 100MW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in the mining town of Jwaneng, located 100 kilometres from the capital, Gaborone.
Masisi highlighted that this is one of the implementations of the National Energy Policy, aiming to provide clean and safe energy while reducing CO2 emissions.
“This shows the government’s dedication to energy transition and sustainability. The government is making strides in providing affordable and clean energy. This project marks another significant milestone in our national development commitments,” said Masisi.
He emphasised that the project is key to the transition towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, adding that the local energy sector contributes more than 80% of Botswana’s total emissions.
The President also noted that Botswana’s target is to integrate 50% renewable energy into the national energy mix by 2036.
The Jwaneng Solar Project follows another renewable energy milestone. In March this year, Masisi launched the 100MW Mmadinare Solar Cluster— a first of its kind and size in Botswana at that time.
The first phase of the Mmadinare Solar Project, which commenced five months ago, will produce 50MW and is scheduled for completion in January 2025.
According to Masisi, when launching the second project, the remaining 50MW of the Mmadinare Project will be completed six months later, or by mid-2025, bringing the total to 100MW.
The Jwaneng project is expected to be commissioned next year, according to Masisi. Further 200MW and 100MW solar projects are planned for Maun and Letlhakane, respectively, in 2026.
Additionally, Masisi mentioned that the villages of Bobonong and Shakawe will also be powered by solar energy within the next two years.
Pictures: BW Presidency
