Norwegian renewable energy company, Scatec ASA, has started construction on the 120 MW Mmadinare Solar Complex in Botswana. The company developer hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the project on the 22nd of March which was attended by Botswana’s president, Mokgweetsi Masisi.
The solar project to be located in Mmadinare District in Botswana is set to be the first utility-scale solar project in the Southern African nation. Once completed, the facility will supply power to the Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) via a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA).
The project was initially granted to Scatec as a 60MW solar PV project, but the developer was subsequently granted authorisation to expand the project by a further 60MW by Botswana authorities in the third quarter of 2023.
“By doubling the total capacity of the solar power plant, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our strategy, robust business model and drive to contribute to the green energy transition in Africa,” says Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog.
Advancing Botswana’s energy independence goals
The Norwegian developer will own 100% of the project and will be the designated engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) company, as well as asset manager (AM) and operations and maintenance (O&M) service provider. Construction and operation of the power plants will be managed by Scatec’s South Africa subsidiary.
“Solar is one of the world’s fastest growing and most cost competitive clean energy sources. Scatec’s pioneering role and solid track record in solar stand testimony to our commitment to value creation; including the positive impact we make and the communities we enhance,” Pilskog adds.
The project’s location in Mmadinare District is close to the former mining town of Selebi-Phikwe, 400 kilometres Northeast of capital Gaborone. The solar power plant will ensure that approximately 48,000 tons of CO2 emissions will be avoided and power approximately 20,000 households annually.
Additionally, the solar project is set to help Botswana in moving closer to achieve energy independence and reduce its reliance on energy imports from its neighbouring countries. The Southern African nation spends close to US$100 million a year in electricity imports.
