Title: The supply of electrical energy to the Bipemba substation in Mbuji-Mayi: an important step towards local development
Introduction :
The town of Mbuji-Mayi in Kasaï-Oriental, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, recently took an important step towards local development with the supply of electrical energy to its substation located in Bipemba. This achievement is the result of the joint work of the National Electricity Company (SNEL) and the Anhui Mining Investment Company (SACIM), operating the Tubi Tubidi hydroelectric power station. This article looks back on this major event for the city and the prospects it opens up for the local economy.
An ambitious project to meet electricity needs:
After a year of work, the Tshibue-Boya-Katende-Mbuji-Mayi-Kabeya-Kamwanga electrical transmission line was commissioned, enabling the energy supply of the Bipemba substation in Mbuji-Mayi. This line connects the Tubi Tubidi hydroelectric power station, which has a capacity of 3 megawatts, built by SACIM in the locality of Boya. This work required the expertise of SNEL engineers to ensure the distribution of electricity in the region.
The first steps towards the electrification of the city:
For about two weeks, the Bipemba substation has been supplied with electrical energy, marking the first steps in the electrification of the city of Mbuji-Mayi. The tests were successful and the electricity network is ready to supply electricity to the commune of Bipemba. In a few weeks, the entire city will be able to benefit from this new source of energy, which should have a significant impact on local development.
A boost for the local economy:
The supply of electrical energy to the Bipemba substation opens new prospects for the local economy of Mbuji-Mayi. Indeed, the lack of electrical energy was an obstacle to the development of the region, limiting commercial and industrial activities. With the arrival of electricity, businesses will be able to develop their activities, create jobs and contribute to the economic growth of the city. In addition, residents will benefit from better access to electricity, thus improving their quality of life.
A step towards energy autonomy:
Until now, Kasaï-Oriental had only one hydroelectric plant in Tshiala, operated by Energie du Kasaï (Enerka). However, its installed capacity was limited and insufficient to meet the region’s growing energy demand. The energy supply to the Bipemba substation therefore marks an important step towards the energy autonomy of the province, by diversifying energy sources and reducing its dependence on the Tshiala power station..
Conclusion :
The supply of electrical energy to the Bipemba substation in Mbuji-Mayi is a major event for the local development of the city. Thanks to the collaboration between SNEL and SACIM, the population will soon be able to benefit from electricity and economic activities will be able to develop. This investment in energy infrastructure opens new perspectives for the region and marks a step towards the energy autonomy of Kasai-Oriental.