Rehabilitation of the Lubilanji 1 hydroelectric power station: good news for access to electricity in Mbuji-Mayi
The provincial government of Kasaï Oriental recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the company Kasaï Power Industry for the rehabilitation of the Lubilanji 1 hydroelectric power station. This announcement marks a significant step forward in the supply of electricity to the city of Mbuji- Mayi.
The Lubilanji 1 power station, which belongs to the Bakwanga mining company (MIBA) and its subsidiary ENERKA, plays a crucial role in the production of electrical energy in the region. However, over time, the plant has experienced operational problems and is in need of extensive repairs.
Thanks to a concession contract awarded to Kasaï Power Industry by the Electricity Regulatory Authority, the rehabilitation of the plant will be able to begin soon. Initially, the plant will be capable of producing 10 MW of electricity, before finalizing the complete project which should result in a capacity of 37 MW across the Lubilanji 1 and 2 sites.
The rehabilitation work will be carried out by the Austrian company Turbines et Génératrice Électrique Global Hydro, specialized in hydroelectric machines. This work is expected to last between 15 and 18 months, and a site visit will be scheduled to assess the feasibility and launch of the work.
The rehabilitation of the Lubilanji 1 hydroelectric plant is excellent news for the town of Mbuji-Mayi, which has long suffered from electricity shortages. Improving access to electricity will have a significant impact on the daily lives of residents, facilitating access to lighting, household appliances and other essential services.
Additionally, this rehabilitation will also contribute to the economic development of the region, enabling local businesses to operate more efficiently and attracting new investments.
In conclusion, the rehabilitation of the Lubilanji 1 hydroelectric power station is a major step in improving access to electricity in Mbuji-Mayi. This project will help meet the growing energy needs of the region and stimulate economic and social development. Let us hope that the work goes smoothly and that the plant will soon be able to provide stable and reliable electricity to the population of Mbuji-Mayi.