The rehabilitation of the Lubilanji 1 hydroelectric power station in Mbuji-mayi, in the Kasai-Oriental province, is a priority for the provincial government. A memorandum of understanding was signed with the Kasaï Power Industry company to ensure the rehabilitation of this power plant.
This concession contract was awarded to the company after meeting the requirements of the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ARE) and will allow it to operate the Lubilanji 1 power plant to provide electricity to the city of Mbuji-mayi.
The company is committed to rehabilitating the plant initially to produce 10 MW, before completing the full project which will reach a capacity of 37 MW across the Lubilanji 1 and 2 sites. The work will be carried out by an Austrian company specializing in electrical machines, turbines and generators, Global Hydro, within a period estimated between 15 and 18 months.
Currently managed by the Société Énergie du Kasaï (ENERKA), the Lubilanji 1 hydroelectric power station is located near the Lubilanji River, in Bakwa Bowa, in the Katanda territory. This power plant, owned by the Société Minière de Bakwanga (MIBA), is essential for supplying electricity to the town of Mbuji-mayi.
This initiative to rehabilitate the Lubilanji 1 power station is part of the provincial government’s desire to modernize the region’s energy infrastructure and guarantee more stable and reliable access to electricity for the population. It will also contribute to the economic development of the region by allowing local businesses to have access to quality electrical energy.
In conclusion, the rehabilitation of the Lubilanji 1 hydroelectric power station is an important step in improving the electricity supply to the town of Mbuji-mayi. It demonstrates the commitment of the provincial government of Kasaï-Oriental to sustainable development and the improvement of the living conditions of the population.