The Busanga hydroelectric power plant: a major step forward for energy development in the DRC
The Busanga hydroelectric power station, located in Lualaba province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a major project that promises to meet the country’s growing energy needs. Built with $656 million in funding from Sino-Congolaise des Mines (SICOMINES) S.A, the plant was commissioned last year (2022). With a production capacity of 240 MW, it represents the first major energy infrastructure project in the region for more than 60 years.
The Busanga power plant project is of particular importance to SICOMINES, a joint venture between Générale des Carrières et des Mines (Gécamines) and a group of Chinese companies. Indeed, the plant’s energy production will enable SICOMINES to achieve its copper production objectives, with a planned annual capacity of 250,000 tonnes. This will open the door to the repayment of funding granted by SICOMINES for the development of infrastructure in the DRC, in accordance with the collaboration agreement signed in 2008.
Apart from its direct impact on the mining industry, the Busanga hydroelectric plant also brings benefits to the Congolese people. Indeed, part of the energy produced will be intended to supply the installations of SICOMINES during the duration of the mining project, but the surplus will be made available to the electricity network of the province of Lualaba and Greater Katanga. This will meet the growing demand for electricity in the region, in particular by alleviating the difficulties faced by the National Electricity Company (SNEL).
The commissioning of the Busanga power plant represents a major turning point for energy development in the DRC. In addition to ensuring the energy autonomy necessary for the mining industry, it will enable SNEL to recover 50 MW of electricity, ie the quantity previously supplied to SICOMINES. Together with the additional 70 MW intended for the commercialization of electricity, this contributes to increasing the availability of energy for the Congolese population and promotes the industrial development of the country.
The Busanga hydroelectric power plant project also demonstrates the cooperation between the DRC and China. Chinese investors, in addition to financing the construction of the plant, have created a joint venture with Congolese shareholders, thus allowing the Congolese party to benefit directly from the project.
In conclusion, the Busanga hydropower plant represents a major step forward for energy development in the DRC. By providing a reliable and sustainable source of energy, it supports the mining industry, stimulates infrastructure development, and meets the growing electricity needs of the Congolese population.