Title: Off-Grid Electrification: An Opportunity to Transform the Democratic Republic of Congo
Introduction :
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) recently hosted the 12th Workshop of the French-Speaking Network of Energy Regulators (RégulaE.Fr) in Kinshasa, July 11-14, 2023. This event focused on the topic of off-grid electrification, a crucial issue in a country seeking to extend access to electricity to its population. This meeting allowed to discuss the advances made by the DRC in the electricity sector, as well as the challenges and opportunities related to off-grid electrification.
Reform and liberalization of the electricity sector:
In his opening speech, Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde stressed the importance of the reform of the electricity sector in the DRC, initiated by law n°14/011 of June 17, 2014. This reform has made it possible to liberalize the sector, thus opening the door to competition in the activities of production, transport, distribution, import, export and marketing of electrical energy. This liberalization marked a major turning point in the country, favoring the participation of the private sector and opening up new prospects for development.
Promising energy potential:
The DRC, with its strategic mineral resources such as cobalt, lithium and copper, offers considerable energy potential. This potential is not limited only to the exploitation of these minerals, but also to the search for new innovative technologies. The President of the Republic has clearly expressed his vision of promoting technological research related to batteries, which are essential for extending their lifespan. The DRC therefore has a unique opportunity to become a key player in the battery sector and thus contribute to the global energy transition.
The challenges of off-grid electrification:
Off-grid electrification represents a major challenge in the DRC, given the country’s size and geographic diversity. It is essential to find appropriate mechanisms to facilitate the integration of isolated networks into the national or regional network, while ensuring the continuous development of energy production infrastructures. Discussions took place during the workshop to address these issues and find solutions adapted to the Congolese reality.
Conclusion :
The Francophone Network of Energy Regulators workshop was an opportunity to highlight the advances made by the DRC in the electricity sector, as well as the challenges and opportunities related to off-grid electrification. The liberalization of the sector and the energy potential of the country offer promising prospects for the transformation of the DRC and its contribution to the global energy transition