A private Mozambican group will invest $110 million in a solar power plant in Gaza province. The Chibuto Solar Power Plant will have a capacity of 95 MW, backed by Sal Energia and Elétrica de Mozambique. Mozambique aims for 1,000 MW of solar energy by 2030, following a broader vision for renewable energy development including investments of $80 billion by 2050.
A private Mozambican group plans to invest $110 million in a solar power plant in Gaza province, Mozambique. This initiative, revealed to Lusa, aims to establish the Chibuto Solar Power Plant, which will have a capacity of 95 MW. The project is a partnership between Sal Energia and the state-owned company, Elétrica de Mozambique (EDM), aimed at enhancing the public grid’s capacity.
The solar plant will be constructed on a 211-hectare site in Chibuto Sede, accompanied by a 10-kilometer 275KV transmission line connecting to the Chibuto substation. While solar electricity production in Mozambique increased by 18.6% in 2024, it constituted less than 1% of the total electricity generated in the country, still dominated by hydroelectric plants.
The government aims to advance solar projects in five regions by 2030, targeting a capacity of 1,000 MW. The Energy Transition Strategy (ETS) suggests that these initiatives are crucial to resolving Mozambique’s energy strategy challenges after 2030, particularly balancing green energy exports and local industrial energy demands. The new approach anticipates investments totaling around $80 billion by 2050 for expanded solar and wind capacities.
The plan involves developing at least 1,000 MW of new solar capacity and additional onshore wind energy. Furthermore, the government emphasizes creating an encouraging business environment for large-scale renewable energy projects. By 2050, Mozambique targets an installed capacity of at least 7.5 GW from solar and 2.5 GW from wind energy to fulfill rising electricity consumption sustainably.
To facilitate this growth, Mozambique will leverage its Renewable Energy Auction Programme, drawing from successful regional examples such as South Africa’s rapid solar expansion post-auction implementation, ensuring an effective long-term commitment to renewable energy development.
In conclusion, the announced investment in the Chibuto Solar Power Plant by a private Mozambican group marks a significant step in enhancing Mozambique’s renewable energy landscape. With a goal of 1,000 MW of solar capacity by 2030, the government is taking proactive measures to navigate its energy landscape strategically while promoting sustainable development through large-scale renewable energy initiatives. The future of solar and wind energy in Mozambique appears promising, driven by an ambitious investment strategy and supportive policies.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
