Off-grid electrification: a solution for access to electricity in the DRC
The city-province of Kinshasa recently hosted the 12th workshop of the Francophone Network of Energy Regulators (RégulaE.Fr) from July 11 to 14, 2023. The event was marked by fruitful discussions centered on the theme of off-grid electrification.
During the opening of the work, Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, representative of the Head of State, underlined the importance of this theme. He highlighted the progress made by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the electricity sector, in particular thanks to the reform of the electricity sector which liberalized the industry and encouraged private sector participation. This reform opened up new perspectives and enabled the DRC to develop its strategic natural resources such as cobalt, lithium and copper.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the vision of the President of the DRC to develop technological research related to batteries, in particular to extend their lifespan. This vision is part of the desire to make the DRC a major player in the field of batteries and innovative technologies.
Off-grid electrification, which consists of providing electricity to remote areas or areas not connected to the national grid, was at the heart of the discussions during this workshop. The participants mentioned the need to ensure that this electrification does not compromise the development of production infrastructure and does not slow down the deployment of the national grid.
The Director General of the Electricity Sector Regulatory Authority (ARE), Doctor Sandrine Mubenga, took advantage of this event to present several projects under development.
This workshop was also an opportunity to visit the Kinsuka 220 KV substation, which is part of a hydroelectric power plant construction project aimed at strengthening the energy supply of the region.
In conclusion, this workshop helped to highlight the progress of the DRC in the electricity sector as well as the efforts made to promote off-grid electrification. The DRC’s desire to become a key player in the field of batteries and innovative technologies is an opportunity to be seized for the country’s development.