Scatec and the Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) have signed a binding 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) for the construction of a solar PV facility with a contracted capacity of 50 megawatt at Selebi Phikwe. Scatec owns 100% of the project and will be the designated engineering, procurement and construction company (EPC), asset manager, and O&M contractor.
This is a significant development for Botswana, and for the green energy transition in Sub-Saharan Africa. Botswana is rich in natural resources and has vast solar energy potential, receiving over 3,200 hours of sunshine per year.
Even though Botswana possesses 66% of Africa’s coal resources, the nation’s ambitions to drive a renewable energy transformation is clear to see. Neighbouring country, South Africa, has displayed that the transition to renewables can be cost effective and sustainable – whilst aligning to global carbon emission reduction goals. Renewables should account for 15% of Botswana’s energy mix by 2030 – while the country’s Vision 2036 calls for 50% renewable energy allocation by 2036.
“We are proud to have reached this milestone with the BPC – demonstrating our ability to support and deliver clean energy and infrastructure to Sub-Saharan Africa. It is also a significant achievement for the people of Botswana,” says General Manager of Sub-Saharan Africa, Jan Fourie.
Scatec will construct the solar facility in Selibe Phikwe, a former mining town located in the eastern part of the country. The solar power plant will ensure that approximately 48,000 tons of CO2 emissions will be avoided and power approximately 20,000 households annually.
