23 October 2025
Botswana is set to add an additional 1,375 megawatts (MW) of electricity generation from coal-fired power plants, Minister of Minerals and Energy, Hon. Bogolo Kenewendo, announced this week during her presentation of the Ministry’s NDP 12 plans in Parliament.
Minister Kenewendo noted that current domestic electricity generation stands at 965 MW, combining both thermal and renewable sources—an increase from 755 MW in previous years. She also highlighted a significant rise in the contribution of renewable energy, which has grown from 1.3% to 8% of the national energy mix.
While acknowledging this progress, the Minister raised concerns over the efficiency and reliability of local power plants, particularly at Morupule B, where several units remain under ongoing remedial maintenance.
“While local generation has improved, we still have efficiency challenges, especially with Morupule B, where some units are continually under remedial action,” said Kenewendo.
To meet the country’s base load requirements and projected energy demand, the government will pursue conventional electricity generation through two major avenues being the remediation and optimisation of Morupule B, which has a capacity of 600 MW and the development of new coal-fired power projects totalling 1,375 MW.
Kenewendo emphasised that these projects are not solely intended for domestic consumption, but also support Botswana’s strategy to become an electricity exporter in the region.
“This is not only for domestic consumption. We are also facilitating the export of electricity and supporting the signing of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with other utility companies in the region,” she stated.
Among the key projects underway is Jindal Energy Botswana’s 300 MW power plant development in the Mmamabula Coal Fields, located near Mmamaphashalala villages.
The project, being implemented under a Power Purchase Agreement with Botswana Power Corporation, has the potential to double its capacity to 600 MW.
Another proposed coal-based power initiative involves Minergy Coal’s Masama Mine in Medie near Lentsweletau.The mine has faced financial challenges, and a dedicated power plant has been proposed as a potential strategic turnaround solution.
Source: The Projects Magazine via Facebook
