Will a solar project help Botswana meet its electricity demand?

Botswana has launched its first utility scale grid-connected solar project which is expected to help the country meet its electricity demand. Botswana President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi at the launch of the first phase of the solar project. Image Source: Botswana Power Corporation (BPC)/X.

What is the power sector in Botswana?

Revised in April 2025, this map provides a detailed view of the power sector in Botswana. The locations of power generation facilities that are operating, under construction or planned are shown by type – including liquid fuels, gas and liquid fuels, coal, hybrid, hydroelectricity and solar.

How will a solar power plant benefit Botswana?

The solar power plant will ensure that approximately 48,000 tons of CO2 emissions will be avoided and power approximately 20,000 households annually. Botswana has launched its first utility scale grid connected solar project which is expected to help meet the country’s electricity demand.

Where is the largest solar project in Botswana?

“As we reach another milestone in our renewable energy journey in Botswana, we are now looking forward to starting construction of the largest solar project in the country,” said Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog. The plant will be located near Mmadinare, close to the former mining town of Selebi-Phikwe, 400 kilometres north-east of the capital Gaborone.

When will Botswana start generating electricity?

The facility is expected to start generation by the end of 2025. Botswana ’s President, Mokgweetsi Masisi, said the project is a key milestone in the country's energy transition. “Our journey toward energy security and transition has begun in earnest and is unstoppable.

How much solar energy does Botswana use?

Botswana has tremendous potential for solar energy utilization, with an annual Direct Normal Irradiation equivalent of 3,000 kWh/m²/a in most parts of the country, with an average insolation on a horizontal surface of 21 MJ/ m².