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Investor Interest in Solar Capacity Grows Amid Transmission Challenges in Botswana

By Africazine

Investor interest in more than 5 gigawatts (GW) of potential solar capacity has surged in Botswana, but the country’s limited ability to transmit that electricity is hindering progress. Vice President and Minister of Finance Ndaba Gaolathe states that investors are ready to build solar plants, attracted by Botswana’s high solar irradiation.

The delays are not due to a lack of investors but rather the insufficient capacity to transmit and evacuate the generated power, especially for export. The government needs to establish the necessary transmission infrastructure and legal frameworks for electricity wheeling, pricing, and access to the national grid. Gaolathe noted that work on these requirements is advanced, with the Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) and the Ministry of Minerals and Energy preparing the regulatory arrangements.

Investor Interest in Botswana’s Solar Potential

Botswana is currently targeting about 700 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity. The surplus generation could be directed towards electricity exports and energy-intensive industries, such as data centres and artificial intelligence computing. This shift could lead to affordable and reliable power, opening opportunities beyond the traditional power sector.

Botswana: Key figures on Solar Capacity

  • 5 gigawatts (GW) of potential solar capacity
  • 700 megawatts (MW) of current solar capacity

Challenges in Building Transmission Infrastructure

The challenge has evolved from attracting renewable energy investors to constructing the grid and establishing rules that facilitate operational plants. The speed at which Botswana can mobilise financing, extend its transmission network, and instill confidence in independent power producers and financiers will determine how much of the 5GW pipeline is realised.

Next Steps for Botswana’s Energy Sector

  • Complete the transmission infrastructure development
  • Finalize legal and regulatory frameworks for electricity wheeling
  • Encourage independent power producers to invest

Investor interest in Botswana’s solar capacity is high, but infrastructure challenges remain.

Investor Interest in Solar Capacity Grows Amid Transmission Challenges in Botswana

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