Major solar proposal could diversify economy, reduce costs for Botswana

Solar plant
Solar plant

A proposed five gigawatt (GW) solar power programme to be developed jointly by Botswana and Namibia would become a landmark power deal in Africa and help diversify their economies.

Both nations currently import expensive power from South Africa, but full implementation of the proposal would make Botswana and Namibia new energy leaders in Africa.

Ambitious renewable energy export proposals are starting to become commonplace. Egypt is now seeking to export its excess domestic renewable energy to African neighbours and Europe. This follows an Egyptian move earlier this year to cancel a proposed China-backed coal-fired power plant on overcapacity concerns and a preference for cheaper renewables.

Editor's Comment
Botswana at a critical juncture

While the political shift brings hope for change, it also places immense pressure on the new administration to deliver on its election promises in the face of serious economic challenges.On another level, newly appointed Finance Minister Ndaba Gaolathe’s grim assessment of the country’s finances adds urgency to the moment. The budget deficit, expected to be P8.7 billion, is now anticipated to be even higher due to underperforming diamond...

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