Renewable-energy company Scatec has achieved the successful commercial operation of the first 50 MW phase of the 100 MW Mmadinare Solar Cluster in Botswana, which was developed in partnership with Botswana Power Corporation (BPC).

The remaining part of the project is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in early 2026.

Under a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with BPC, the project will generate clean, reliable electricity that will contribute towards meeting the country’s growing energy demand.

The Mmadinare Solar Cluster marks Scatec’s first operational project in the country and underscores its commitment to advancing renewable-energy solutions across sub-Saharan Africa.

The project supports Botswana’s vision for a more sustainable and energy-secure future, the company added.

The successful completion of the first phase of the Mmadinare Solar Cluster reflects Botswana’s strong commitment to diversifying its energy mix and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.

The government of Botswana, through the Ministry of Minerals and Energy, has been instrumental in creating an enabling environment for large-scale renewable-energy projects, demonstrating a clear ambition to accelerate the country’s energy transition, it noted.

“The 50 MW will make a substantial impact on our electricity generation efforts, particularly during daytime hours. Our collaboration with independent power producers, including Scatec and other key stakeholders, underscores our commitment to expanding renewable-energy capacity and addressing the growing electricity demand in a sustainable manner,” said BPC CEO David Kgoboko.

Further, Scatec’s investment aligns with Botswana’s Integrated Resource Plan, which outlines the need for increased renewable-energy generation to meet future electricity demand sustainably.

The Mmadinare Solar Cluster contributes directly to this goal by providing clean power to thousands of households and businesses while reducing carbon emissions.

“This first phase milestone demonstrates our ability to deliver high-quality renewable-energy projects that support local economies and drive sustainable growth,” said Scatec sub-Saharan Africa executive VP Alberto Gambacorta.

“We are now ramping up construction of the second phase and look forward to its completion at the beginning of next year,” he said.

“Energy projects like the Mmadinare Solar Cluster are essential for the region’s long-term economic and environmental sustainability,” said development finance institution International Finance Corporation (IFC) Southern Africa regional director Cláudia Conceição.

“The IFC is pleased to be a financing partner in this project, which showcases the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors in advancing Africa’s renewable-energy ambitions,” she said.