Lucara Botswana has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from qualified Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and renewable energy developers to design, finance, build, operate, and maintain a 30 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant for its Karowe Mine in Botswana. The project marks another important step in the company’s strategy to reduce its dependence on conventional energy sources while supporting its long-term sustainability goals.
Lucara Botswana operates the Karowe Mine, located about 20 kilometers from Letlhakane, while its corporate office is based in Gaborone. The company is fully owned by Canada-based Lucara Diamond Corp and is recognized for producing large, high-quality diamonds. As underground mining operations are expected to continue until 2040, the company is looking to strengthen its energy security by integrating renewable power into its operations.
The selected developer will be responsible for delivering the project under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This includes arranging project financing, constructing the solar plant, and managing its operation and maintenance throughout the contract period. Currently, the Karowe Mine depends mainly on electricity supplied through the national grid, supported by diesel generators during power interruptions. By investing in solar energy, Lucara Botswana aims to reduce its exposure to fluctuating electricity prices, improve energy cost predictability, and ensure a reliable power supply for mining operations.
The proposed solar facility will be developed on approximately 20 to 30 hectares of land available at the mine site. According to the project plan, development will take place in two phases. The first phase will include the installation of a 20 MWp grid-connected solar PV system. The second phase will expand the project with an additional 10 MWp solar PV installation combined with a 20 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The integrated system will operate either as a grid-connected or hybrid power solution, with commercial operations expected to begin in 2027 or 2028.
Lucara Botswana has outlined strict qualification requirements for interested bidders. Applicants must demonstrate experience in developing utility-scale solar projects with capacities exceeding 20 MW. They are also required to provide audited financial statements for the past three years, present a detailed project execution methodology, and confirm compliance with local content requirements as well as health and safety standards.
Interested companies must submit one original and one copy of their proposal, clearly labeled, to the Procurement Tender Box at Lucara Botswana’s Letlhakane office. The submission deadline has been set for July 10, 2026, at 12:30 pm. Through this initiative, the company aims to secure a reliable renewable energy partner while advancing its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments and supporting the decarbonization of its mining operations.
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