13 Aug 2024

China has pledged to support Botswana’s initiatives intended to promote the use of renewable energy aimed at increasing the use of green energy .

The Economic and Commercial Counsellor of Chinese Embassy in Botswana, Mr Lan Yuqiang has said they were willing to share their green energy and modern technology experience with Botswana to support the country’s energy aspirations.

“China is willing to share its green energy experience with Botswana and encourage more Chinese companies to invest in new energy industries here,” he said at the 100MW Jwaneng Solar PV Plant Power Purchase Agreement signing ceremony on Monday.

The agreement between Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) and China Harbour Engineering Consortium involves the development, financing, construction, operation, and maintenance of the solar plant.

The consortium is also set to produce and sell power to BPC for 25 years, starting from the commissioning of the plant next year.

Mr Yuqiang highlighted Botswana’s goal to increase its renewable energy capacity by 15 per cent by 2036, suggesting that this aspiration was achievable due to the country’s rich renewable energy resources.

He pointed out that China had recently made a strategic decision to advance high-quality developments that create new opportunities for Botswana and other African nations.

Furthermore, He said plans were underway to continue to enhance such relations between China and the communities in Africa in the future.

For his part, the Minister of Minerals and Energy,     Honourable Lefoko Moagi, said Botswana  was making progress towards transforming its energy sector from fossil-based sources to a sustainable energy mix that includes both renewable and non-renewable resources.

He stressed the importance of Botswana’s role in mitigating the effects of climate change through the implementation of the Integrated Resource Plan.

“It is imperative that Botswana plays its role in mitigating the devastating climate change effects, which we are already experiencing from time to time,” he said.

Minister Moagi expressed optimism about the China Harbour Engineering Consortium’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities, thanks to Botswana’s robust governance and favorable credit rating.

He also called on Jwaneng community to support the project, underscoring its importance throughout the construction and operational phases.

“To the Jwaneng community, congratulations for being selected to host our second utility-scale grid-connected solar PV project. Your cooperation and support during this project is key to its successful delivery,” Mr Moagi said.

Giving an overview of the project, BPC Chief Executive Officer, Mr David Kgoboko, said in addition to its contribution towards the country’s renewable energy targets, the project would also enhance Debswana’s efforts to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2030.

He said a 132kv substation and associated transmission facilities would be constructed to connect the plant to the national grid.

“Upon completion, it will enhance our energy security, contribute to a sustainable energy mix of renewable energy and non-renewable sources, and optimise our generation costs by reducing the need for daytime power imports,” he said. ENDS