Fatshimétrie, October 26, 2024: The President of the Republic, during his traveling mission to Kisangani, was informed of the challenges related to increasing the capacity of the Tshopo1 hydroelectric power plant to 50 megawatts. This visit, which took place on Friday at the site of the eponymous province, in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo, was an opportunity for the Head of State to note the progress of the rehabilitation work on this crucial infrastructure.
The Director General of Snel, Fabrice Lusinde, explained to the President the significant progress made, emphasizing the importance of this power plant for the energy development of the Tshopo region. With a capacity of 50 megawatts, the hydroelectric power plant will be able to meet the electricity needs not only of Kisangani, but also of neighboring localities, thus overcoming the energy deficit that impacts the local population.
This move is in line with the Congolese government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and promote sustainable development throughout the Democratic Republic of Congo. By powering thousands of homes, businesses and institutions, the Tshopo1 hydroelectric power plant plays a crucial role in providing access to electricity, a key pillar of socio-economic and industrial development.
The Head of State’s visit generated great interest among local residents, demonstrating the importance of this project for the local community. By strengthening the region’s energy capacity, the ongoing work is opening the way to new opportunities both economically and socially.
While the hydroelectric power plant was built in 1954 and had a capacity of less than 10 megawatts, the current rehabilitation work aims to meet the growing demand for electricity in the city of Kisangani and its surroundings, where the need for electrical energy is estimated at 45 megawatts.
During a meeting held upon his arrival in Kisangani, the Head of State had stressed his determination to resolve the recurring electricity problem that hinders the development of the region. By committing to strengthening energy infrastructure, the Congolese government affirms its desire to promote the progress and well-being of the citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The rehabilitation of the Tshopo1 hydroelectric power plant to 50 megawatts therefore represents a significant step towards a more stable and sustainable energy future for the Kisangani region, paving the way for new prospects for economic and social development for the entire local community.