India-based renewable energy development company Soleos Energy, in partnership with Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) electrical engineering company Melci, will build a 200 MW solar PV power project in Haut-Katanga province.

The $200-million project represents a significant step in the region's renewable-energy efforts, and will provide clean, reliable electricity for more than one-million residents while reducing carbon emissions and supporting the nation’s economic growth.

The solar power plant will be situated in the village of Fipango, in the territory of Kipushi.

The solar project is expected to generate approximately 350-million kilowatt-hours of electricity a year, thereby reducing CO₂ emissions by 300 000 t/y.

This contribution to environmental goals aligns with both companies' commitment to sustainability and their efforts to provide cleaner, more affordable energy solutions to developing regions, they add.

The project is expected to create more than 2 000 jobs during construction and more than 500 permanent jobs during operation, thereby providing significant employment opportunities in the local economy.

The project is scheduled for completion by late 2025.

“This project will provide much-needed renewable-energy infrastructure in the DRC. Our combined expertise will help to address the region's growing energy demand, while also creating substantial social and environmental benefits, including job creation and community development,” says Soleos Energy CEO Dhaval Jiyani.

“This project represents a turning point in the energy landscape of the DRC. By harnessing solar energy at this scale, we will be able to meet the critical energy demands of the region and pave the way for sustainable growth. Working alongside Soleos Energy, we bring local expertise and are dedicated to a cleaner, greener future for our country,” says Melci CEO and MD Professor Tshimbalanga Madiba.

The project will be executed under a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with DRC State-owned utility Société Nationale d'Électricité (SNEL), which ensures long-term energy stability for the DRC and solid returns for investors, the companies say.

“This partnership with Melci strengthens our ability to deliver a project of this scale. The 25-year PPA with SNEL offers long-term security for investors while addressing critical energy needs in the DRC. This is not just about energy. It is about creating economic opportunities and sustainable development for local communities,” says Soleos Energy CFO Jason Temasfieldt.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the project will take place on October 18, 2024, with construction set to begin immediately thereafter.