China Invests in Botswana's Renewable Energy

China, a leader in renewable energy investment, is passing on its knowledge and resources to help Botswana achieve its renewable energy targets.

A group of Chinese companies, led by China Harbour Engineering Co., has won a contract to build a 100-megawatt (MW) solar plant in Botswana. This development is part of China’s commitment to clean energy and sustainable development.

The project will see a collaboration between China Harbour Engineering and a local investor, China Water and Electric Development Co. The solar plant, valued at US$78.3 million (R1.4 billion), is set to completed by the second quarter of 2026, according to Zhitong Finance.

The contract signing took place on Monday in Jwaneng, which is a diamond mining town located 200 kilometers west of the capital, Gaborone. President Mokgweetsi Masisi attended the event where they spoke about importance of this edge for Botswana’s energy future.

This year, Scatec, a Norwegian solar company, began constructing on a 100MW solar plant in Botswana’s north-east. The first phase of 60MW is planned to come online later this year. Furthermore, the Botswana government is partnering with the World Bank to implement two 50MW battery storage systems, which will support both the Jwaneng solar plant and Scatec’s project.

This partnership between China and Botswana shows a step towards sustainable energy development and mutual benefits for both nations.

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