Recent Investments See Congo Increase Renewable Energy Capacity
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Serving as part of a €6 million investment aimed at implementing a regional energy program in the Republic of Congo, the EU recently granted €1.5 million to the country to finance the Center of Excellence for Renewable Energy Efficiency in the town of Oyo. The program aims to advance research and development in renewable energy and energy efficiency in Congo – as well as the wider Economic Community of Central African States – while establishing mechanisms to ensure a reliable clean energy market in the country.
Boasting immense potential for renewable energy – including a feasible hydropower capacity of 3.9 GW and an average daily solar irradiance of 4.5 kWh per m2 – Congo is well-positioned to leverage government resolution and its strong slate of upcoming projects to transform its energy landscape. In recent years, the country has implemented a number of initiatives to diversify its energy matrix and expand the share of renewable energy.
Leveraging the Power of Hydro
Highlighting a commitment to bridging the energy access gap between urban areas – with an electrification rate of 49% - and rural areas – with a rate of 12% – the Congolese government recently launched studies for micro-hydropower plants aimed at enhancing rural electrification and reducing reliance on diesel generators. The initiative showcases how rural electrification is a critical priority for economic growth and improved living standards across the country.
With 70% of Congo’s energy derived from natural gas, and rural communities relying heavily on diesel generators, hydropower offers a sustainable alternative to the country’s power woes. Last September, the government signed an MoU with China Overseas to develop the Sounda hydroelectric project. At an expected cost of $9.4 billion, the massive project is expected to have a capacity of 600-800 MW. Construction is due for completion by 2030.
To date, three hydroelectric dams are operational in Congo: the 120 MW Imboulou, the 74 MW Moukoukoulou and the 19 MW Liouesso dams. In addition to the Sounda hydropower project, Congo awarded China Gezhouba Group International Engineering a contract for the 600 MW Chollet hydroelectric project on the Dja River in 2021, with environmental and financial studies for the project ongoing. Meanwhile, other hydropower projects currently in development include the 150 MW Murala, 150 MW Kouembali and 50 MW Loufoulakari plants.
From Solar PV to Biomass
Last November, the Ignié 2021-2046 project, a 65 MW renewable energy initiative, received a boost when Tinda Energy secured a financial agreement with Complant to initiate its development. Situated in the Ignié SEZ, the project is set to generate 55 MW from hybrid solar power plants and an additional 10 MW from a biomass facility. Timeline for completion is set at 18 months following the announcement and delivery of key equipment.
In the solar sector, the Congolese government recently signed a deal with AMEA Power for the construction of a 100 MW facility. The solar plant is set to significantly advance clean energy access in Congo. Meanwhile, earlier in the year, Eni announced the actions and objectives of an integrated energy project in Congo. The project aims to bring electricity to 33 community facilities – 11 health centers and 22 drinking wells – powered by solar panels.