The University of Botswana, in collaboration with Sturdee Consortium, is set to construct one of the largest commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants ever to be undertaken in Botswana.
The 6MW solar plant project planned for construction in 2023, was launched by the Minister of Education and Skills Development, Dr Douglas Letsholathebe, at the University of Botswana on November 16, 2022. Once complete, the plant will meet most of the University’s day-time electricity needs, helping it cut its P3.6 million monthly bill right back. The plant will also create an opportunity for the university to sell excess power to the national grid.
The project will be rolled out as a design, build, finance, operate and maintain model partnership with SEB-Consortium. University students and staff will have the unique opportunity of learning about renewable energy with real time data. Training and capacity development have already commenced, with several UB students targeted to gain experience in the design and construction phase.
Launching the project, Dr Letsholathebe said he was delighted that the project would contribute to Botswana’s agenda on the use of clean energy through renewable resources to meet the demand of a fast-growing economy. The Minister said the project would bolster Botswana’s commitment towards carbon reduction and green energy solutions.
“By launching this PV Solar project, you are indeed sending a strong signal that not only is the drive to scale up renewables being undertaken globally but even in emerging economies as well,” said the Minister.
Dr Letsholathebe further expressed the desire for Botswana to have solar panels made at the University of Botswana.
“From here, you go to the lab. I want to come back in a year to launch a University of Botswana-made solar panel,” said Dr Letsholathebe.
He applauded the University of Botswana for taking the lead in the use of green technology, adding that once in place, the solar plant would assist in generating funds for the university, thereby reducing its heavy reliance on government funding. Dr Letsholathebe said energy transformation is reshaping the way electricity is produced, distributed and consumed around the world, with growing solar energy generation at both large and small scale. He said a more decentralised and democratised energy system is emerging.
During his welcome remarks at the event, University of Botswana Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris said he was happy that the new project would lead to more revenue generating opportunities as it comes at a time when the institution is exploring various income streams. Professor Norris further said that through the partnership with Sturdee Consortium, UB was living up to its strategic objective as an engine of economic development by exploring new pathways and reinventing itself to make impactful contributions to society.
Sturdee Energy, a South African company, develops, owns and operates renewable energy projects that supply power to government utilities, large corporates and industrial clients in sub-Saharan Africa. The company focuses on solar PV, as well as wind, hydro and battery storage technologies.
Source: https://www.ub.bw/news/ub-construct-one-largest-commercial-solar-photovoltaic-plants-botswana
