Energy

Luapula hydropower project inches closer

Luapula is seen as a key link in the Southern Africa Power Pool. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Tenders are up for grabs to conduct a bankable feasibility study for the proposed Luapula hydropower project

Located on the Luapula river, which straddles Zambia and the south-eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the project has been in the planning for years.

It consists of hydropower plants and transmission line construction at three sites Mumbotuta, Mambilima, and Mambilima with an estimated total installed capacity of 789 MW and is regarded as a key link in the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP).

This week, SAPP announced that it had received grant funding to support technical and economic feasibility studies and was on the lookout for consultants for the provision of a bankable feasibility study, conceptual design, and separate tender documents for each country for the hydropower stations and transmission lines.

It stated that the financing was from NEPAD Infrastructure Project Preparation Facility (NEPAD-IPPF) and the Multilateral Cooperation Centre for Development Finance (MCDF), with the African Development Bank (AfDB) as its supervising entity in the administration of the grant money.

Expressions of interest for the feasibility work are to be delivered via the SAPP’s Johannesburg office by 28 March 2025.

A separate feasibility study is also up for grabs to explore the environmental and social impact assessment of the project and draw up a resettlement action plan.

The new consultancy and feasibility contracts bring the prospect of Luapula hydropower closer to reality after many years in the making.

The DRC and Zambian governments signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the joint development of generation projects in the Luapula River Basin and a new power interconnector between the two countries back in 2015.

The area’s potential for hydropower was first noted in the 1970s, however.

It was later identified as a priority project in the SAPP Pool Plan of 2017.

The Luapula River runs in south-central Africa forming a boundary between the southern DRC and northern Zambia for about 560 km of its course.

The river rises in the Bangweulu Swamps, one of the world’s largest wetlands, lying east of Lake Bangweulu in eastern Zambia, then descends into a series of falls and runs into Lake Mweru in Tanzania.

In 2021, US$2.5mn was spent on feasibility studies, notably to examine the Mumbotuta site, on behalf of the DRC and Zambian state power utilities, SNEL and ZESCO.

According to the AfDB, the project will also facilitate integration with the Kolwezi-Solwezi transmission interconnector project, the Mozambique-Zambia interconnector and the Zambia-Tanzania-Kenya (ZTK) transmission interconnector (via the ZESCO network).

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Koeberg Unit 2 restored to full capacity

Eskom restores Koeberg Unit 2 to full capacity, reinforcing South Africa’s energy security with 930MW of reliable base load power. (Image source: Eskom)

Eskom has confirmed the successful return to service of Koeberg Unit 2 following an unplanned outage. The unit, which experienced a steam leak in the reheat system, has been safely restored using Eskom’s stringent nuclear safety measures

It is currently generating 646 MW and will continue ramping up to its full 930 MW capacity, providing reliable baseload power to South Africa.

For over 40 years, Koeberg Nuclear Power Station has maintained an exemplary safety record, adhering to global best practices and strict regulatory standards. Eskom remains steadfast in its commitment to nuclear safety, ensuring that all operational processes uphold the highest levels of excellence.

Extending Koeberg’s operational life for long-term energy security

On 15 July 2024, the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) granted Eskom a licence for the continued operation of Koeberg Unit 1 until 21 July 2044. This ensures that the unit will contribute over 930MW to the national grid for another two decades, reinforcing South Africa’s energy security. Koeberg joins approximately 120 other reactors worldwide that have successfully extended their operational lifespan beyond the initial 40-year limit.

Given that Unit 2 remains in a similar condition as Unit 1, Eskom has submitted a request to the NNR to extend its operation for an additional 20 years. The decision is expected before its current licence expires on 9 November 2025. As part of its Long-Term Operation (LTO) programme, Unit 2 recently underwent extensive upgrades, including the replacement of three steam generators, rigorous inspections, and refuelling activities. These enhancements align with Eskom’s broader strategy to ensure the long-term viability of Koeberg’s reactors, which play a vital role in stabilising the country’s electricity supply.

Meanwhile, Unit 1 is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance, including refuelling and statutory tests, as part of its life extension process. These maintenance activities are critical in maintaining the unit’s long-term reliability and safety.

Koeberg’s role in a cleaner energy future

Koeberg remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s energy mix, providing stable, cost-effective, and clean baseload power. Its continued operation contributes to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and supports the country’s transition towards a more sustainable energy future.

“The rapid and professional response to the Unit 2 outage highlights Eskom’s extensive expertise in nuclear operations and unwavering focus on safety,” Eskom stated.

As South Africa advances its green energy agenda, Eskom remains committed to maximising nuclear power’s potential, ensuring a secure and efficient energy supply for future generations.

Harnessing rooftop solar for global energy revolution

New research highlights the vast potential of rooftop solar, urging policymakers to prioritise PV over nuclear for cleaner, cost-effective energy. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Covering rooftops with solar panels worldwide could supply most of the planet’s electricity needs while also reducing global temperatures by 0.13 degrees Celsius, according to new research from the University of Sussex

With rooftops spanning approximately 286,000 km²—comparable in size to Italy or New Zealand—the study suggests that if all viable surfaces were equipped with photovoltaic solar panels, they could produce 19,500 TWh of electricity annually. This output would account for 65% of current global electricity consumption and, when combined with load shifting and battery storage, could largely replace fossil fuel-based power generation.

Using advanced climate models, researchers projected the impact of large-scale solar adoption by 2050. A temperature reduction of 0.13 degrees Celsius is significant, considering a 2023 Nature study indicated that each 0.1-degree rise in global temperatures exposes an additional 140 million people to extreme heat.

Is rooftop solar the better investment?

The study urges policymakers to prioritise rooftop solar technology, emphasising that it provides taxpayers with better value than nuclear power. Felix Creutzig, a climate and policy expert at the University of Sussex, stated, “Solar is now outcompeting nuclear power in cost, deployment speed and environmental risks. Given its immediate carbon reduction benefits, governments should consider shifting incentives toward rooftop PV instead of nuclear. This goes for cooler countries like the UK as well as those with more obvious solar potential.”

The cost of solar power has plummeted over the past decade. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) for solar now ranges between GBP £30 and £50 per MWh (approx. USD$38.77 to US$64.62 per MWh, whereas newer nuclear projects—such as Small Modular Reactors—are estimated to cost between £100 and £150 per MWh (approx. USD$129.22 to US$193.84 per MWh).

“Beyond carbon savings, reducing fossil fuel dependence also means cleaner air and better energy security. With so much untapped potential in solar, it’s hard to see how governments can justify investing in nuclear, or as yet unproven carbon capture projects,” remarked Creutzig

The research underscores the importance of global collaboration in deploying solar panels where they can be most effective. Despite Africa having the highest solar energy potential, the continent accounts for just 1% of global rooftop PV installations, highlighting the need for increased investment. East Asia, with its dense urban areas and high carbon intensity, presents the greatest potential for rooftop solar as a climate mitigation strategy. Meanwhile, North America and Europe, though less sun-rich, possess extensive building infrastructure, offering a combined rooftop PV installation potential of over 4,300 GW—equivalent to 25% of the global capacity.

Also read: AMEA Power ignites solar growth in Ivory Coast

Sierra Leone waste-to-energy project investment

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Sierra Leone urgently needs more power (IMAGE SOURCE: Adobe Stock)

A waste-to-energy project in Sierra Leone has received a cash boost after securing investment from a major development finance partner

Climate Fund Managers (CFM), a climate-focused investment group, will invest US$3.1mn in the transformative Freetown projectFreetown, which is being put together by Infinitum Energy.

The 30MW facility will convert 365,000 tonnes of waste a year into 236.5 GWh of electricity and help to address Sierra Leone’s waste management and energy access challenges, providing energy to over three million people.

The power will be supplied to the national grid under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement with Sierra Leone’s Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), which is currently being finalised.

Structured under an Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, the initiative also demonstrates the West African country’s commitment to becoming a more welcoming place for energy investments.

“By leveraging proven technology and a robust public-private partnership model, we are addressing two critical issues facing Freetown: waste management and reliable energy access. Together, we are demonstrating what is possible when private sector innovation and government collaboration come together to pave the way for a cleaner, greener future for Sierra Leone,” said Lindsay Nagle, CEO of Infinitum Energy.

Infinitum describes itself as a climate infrastructure company specialising in the development of clean energy projects in emerging markets, with a focus on solar, wind and waste-to-energy.

Its current development-stage projects are located in Sierra Leone and Sri Lanka, with teams also exploring other projects in Uganda and other territories outside Africa.

For CFM, the Sierra Leone project also helps contribute to the nation’s long-term climate and development goals, avoiding 94,000 tonnes of CO2 emission annually.

The funding comes from its EU-supported Climate Investor Two Fund, a blended finance facility focused on water and waste infrastructure in emerging markets.

“This waste-to-energy project exemplifies our commitment to creating scalable solutions that address climate, social, and economic challenges in Africa,” said Darron Johnson, regional head of Africa at CFM.

“By transforming Freetown’s waste into a sustainable energy source, we’re not only reducing emissions but also catalysing economic opportunities and improving community health.”

He added: “This partnership underscores the importance of blended finance to absorb early-stage project risks and develop innovative infrastructure solutions in emerging markets.”

Sierra Leone faces severe waste management challenges driven by rapid urbanisation and inadequate infrastructure.

Overwhelmed dumpsites like Kingtom and Kissy, established in the 1940s and 1980s, have led to the emergence of numerous illegal dumpsites.

Together, these sites contribute to acute health risks, clogged waterways with heightened flood risks and the release of hazardous materials into the environment.

Meanwhile, only 22% of the population has access to electricity, up to 40% of which is generated from fossil fuels, leaving millions without reliable power.

The new waste-to-energy plant will provide baseload power, complementing the country’s existing hydropower supply and addressing energy shortages during the dry season.

The waste-to-energy project is also expected to create around 250 direct jobs and support a further 1,500 jobs in the local waste management value chain.

CFM said in a statement that the funding will support detailed waste studies, permitting and early-stage works, accelerating the path to financial close for construction.

On successful completion of the development of the project and subject to obtaining required investment approvals, Climate Investor Two will have the right to fund up to 75% of the required construction equity funding for the project, it added.

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Scatec sells African hydropower assets

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Scatec completes the sale of its 51% stake in African hydropower projects to TotalEnergies, aligning with its strategic focus. (Image source: Scatec)

Scatec ASA has completed the sale of its 51% stake in its African hydropower joint venture with Norfund and British International Investment (BII), aligning with its strategic direction

This follows the initial announcement in a stock exchange notice on 30 July 2024.

The deal closed at an agreed price of US$167mn, based on a valuation date of 31 December 2023. After adjusting for cash movements between the valuation and closing dates, the net proceeds are estimated at US$161mn. These funds will be allocated to Scatec’s self-funded growth strategy and corporate debt reduction.

Hydropower asset sold

The transaction includes the operational 255 MW Bujagali hydropower plant in Uganda, as well as a development portfolio featuring the 361 MW Mpatamanga project in Malawi and the 206 MW Ruzizi III project, spanning Rwanda, the DRC, and Burundi. Additionally, as part of the agreement, the Hydro Africa team will transition to TotalEnergies under the newly formed entity SN Power AS.

Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog stated, “We are pleased with closing the transaction to sell our stake in the African hydropower assets to TotalEnergies. The divestment is in line with our strategy to optimise our portfolio and focus the majority of our investments in our core markets and on solar, onshore wind and battery energy storage. We are confident that TotalEnergies will be a strong owner going forward. I would especially like to thank the hydropower team that now moves to TotalEnergies for their hard work and dedication over the years.”

The sale has resulted in a proportionate accounting effect of approximately US$30mn and a consolidated effect of around US$50mn, primarily influenced by foreign currency fluctuations. These impacts will be recorded in Scatec’s financial results for the first quarter of 2025.