In an exciting development for Southern Africa’s energy landscape, the Mozambican government-owned hydroelectric power company, Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa (HCB), is eyeing Eskom as a prospective buyer for an impressive 1,245MW of additional generation capacity. This expansion plan aims to bolster the existing operations at the renowned Cahora Bassa Dam, a crucial energy source for the region.
Currently, Eskom, South Africa’s primary electricity supplier, is already benefitting from the Cahora Bassa Dam, sourcing around 60% of its energy from this hydraulic powerhouse. The energy journey stretches over 1,400 kilometers, connecting the dam in Songo, northern Mozambique, to the Apollo substation near Pretoria. It’s a remarkable feat of engineering that highlights the cooperative spirit of energy sharing in the Southern African region.
The existing Cahora Bassa Dam boasts a generation capacity of 2,075MW, and plans are underway to not only enhance this facility but also introduce the Mphanda Nkuwa Dam downstream, situated along the Zambezi River. This new dam is projected to generate an additional 1,500MW of clean energy, significantly contributing to the region’s renewable energy goals. The Mozambican government is currently in negotiations with the World Bank, seeking funding assistance for this ambitious hydroelectric expansion.
The World Bank stands firmly behind the expansion initiatives at Cahora Bassa, which includes installing three additional turbines, each capable of generating 415MW. Together, these upgrades are expected to exceed billion in estimated costs but promise a significant return in sustainable energy outputs, providing a much-needed boost to both the Mozambican economy and the southern African power grid.
As Eskom navigates its own challenges, including increasing energy demands and infrastructure maintenance, this collaboration could pave the way for greater energy stability in the region. The mutual reliance on renewable energy sources underscores the importance of regional partnerships in facing the electricity needs of millions.
With all these developments, Mozambique is poised to further establish itself as a vital player in the energy sector, and as the world turns its gaze toward sustainable solutions, this initiative shines brightly among them. #BusinessNews #Tourism #WorldNews #Energy #Environment
