Busanga hydroelectric power plant in the DRC: a sustainable source of energy for development
The construction and commissioning of the Busanga hydroelectric power plant in the Democratic Republic of Congo represents a major turning point for the country. This US$656 million investment, funded by Sino-Congolaise des Mines (SICOMINES) S.A, is providing a long-awaited energy solution in Lualaba Province and Greater Katanga.
With a production capacity of 240 MW, the Busanga hydroelectric plant is not only intended to supply the facilities of SICOMINES, but also to meet the electricity needs of the Congolese population. Indeed, the National Electricity Company (SNEL) faces many difficulties, which leads to a significant energy deficit in the country.
Thanks to this project, SICOMINES will be able to achieve its production objectives of 250,000 tonnes of copper per year. Indeed, electrical energy was until then a brake on the development of mining. This hydroelectric power station will therefore make it possible to support mining activity and reimburse the investments made by SICOMINES in favor of the DRC.
The collaboration between the Sino-Congolese Hydroelectric of Busanga SA and the Congolese shareholders (Gécamines, SIMCO and Congo Management) also demonstrates the involvement of the Congolese party in this major project. Chinese investors have thus enabled the DRC to benefit from a clean and sustainable source of energy, while promoting the development of industry.
In addition to the economic impact, the commissioning of the Busanga hydroelectric power plant also has positive effects on the Congolese population. In addition to the 70 MW intended for the marketing of electricity, SNEL will recover 50 MW of electricity, ie the quantity previously supplied to SICOMINES. Thus, 120 MW of electrical energy will be available for the needs of the Congolese and to support the development of the country.
The Busanga hydroelectric plant is therefore a real development lever for the DRC. By providing a reliable and sustainable source of energy, it helps fuel economic activities, improve the quality of life of Congolese citizens and strengthen the country’s energy independence. Thanks to this major infrastructure, the Democratic Republic of Congo is resolutely part of a dynamic of growth and sustainable development.