Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) and Sturdee Energy (focused on Sub-Saharan Africa) signed an agreement for two power projects which will be country’s first two solar PV IPP projects.
Out of two solar PV projects, one will be built in Bobonong (central district) of 3MW (AC) and another one in Shakawe (northwest) Of 1MW. Under this agreement, Sturdee Energy will provide BPC electricity for 25 years. Both the projects in their first year of operation are anticipated to produce more than 10,000MW.
BPC CEO, David Kgoboko, said, “The signing of the two PPAs marks a major milestone for the adoption of renewable energy in Botswana’s new energy mix and increases energy security for our country in an environmentally sustainable manner.”
“The two solar PV projects mark the beginning of the rollout of twelve grid-tied solar PV projects which are scheduled for completion by end of 2022. When realised, these projects will contribute a total of 35MW of clean energy to our grid,” he added.
Sturdee Energy started obtaining all the required permits and developing the project locations since 2019 when the contract was signed. In total, the invested amount on this project is $5,5 million which will contribute towards low cost renewable energy with local employment.
James White and Andrew Johnson, Sturdee Energy’s executive directors, said, “they are delighted to have been selected to deliver the first solar IPP projects in Botswana and the execution of the PPAs demonstrate significant progress towards realising Botswana’s first IPP renewable energy projects.”
