Botswana is taking a major step toward renewable energy by seeking proposals for a 1.5-gigawatt solar power project this month. The initiative is part of the country’s plan to meet 50/percent of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2030.
Currently, Botswana relies on coal and power imports. However, its vast deserts and year-round sunshine provide ideal conditions for solar energy. The government wants to use these natural resources to boost energy security and reduce dependence on coal.
Mines and Energy Minister Bogolo Kenewendo confirmed the government’s plan in an interview on March 12. “We are already putting out a request for proposals,” she said. “There’s a lot of opportunity for energy production and exporting into southern Africa.”
At present, Botswana has only 5.2 megawatts of solar power in operation. Contracts for an additional 246 megawatts have been awarded. However, the government’s energy roadmap aims to increase solar capacity to 8 gigawatts by 2030.
This shift comes as Southern Africa faces widespread power shortages. Zimbabwe and Zambia are experiencing electricity deficits due to droughts that have affected hydropower. Meanwhile, South Africa continues to struggle with rolling blackouts due to aging coal plants.
Botswana’s electricity demand is around 600 megawatts. Solar plants generate power mainly during peak sunlight hours, such as midday. While coal remains part of the energy mix, renewable sources are becoming the priority.
Despite this push for clean energy, Jindal Steel & Power Ltd. is building coal-fired power plants in Botswana to supply 600 megawatts to the grid. However, the government remains committed to expanding solar energy.
Botswana’s focus on renewables gained momentum after President Duma Boko’s party won the October 2024 elections. It was the first change in ruling party since independence in 1966. In a January interview, President Boko stated that Botswana is unlikely to approve new coal power projects.
With this commitment to solar energy, Botswana aims to secure its power supply and become a key energy exporter in Southern Africa.