Botswana has signed a 30‑year power purchase agreement for the construction of a 500MW solar photovoltaic plant with 500MWh battery storage in Maun, marking one of the country’s largest renewable energy commitments to date.
The agreement was concluded on Thursday during a groundbreaking ceremony attended by President Duma Boko who said the project signals Botswana’s shift “from planning to execution” in its drive towards energy security.
The Maun plant, developed through a government‑to‑government partnership with Oman, will supply clean electricity to the national grid and store power for peak‑demand periods.
It forms part of Botswana’s broader strategy to lift renewable energy from the current 8 percent of the energy mix to 50 percent by 2030, reducing reliance on imports and cutting carbon emissions.
The 500MW project has been under discussion for several years as Botswana sought large‑scale solar investments to complement its coal‑dominated power system.
Maun was identified as a strategic site due to its high solar irradiation and proximity to fast‑growing northern load centres.
The plant is expected to support grid stability, attract new investment and open opportunities for citizen participation in the green economy.
President Boko said the project positions Botswana to become a regional energy hub, noting that long‑term independent power producer agreements are essential for unlocking private capital in the sector.
The government expects the Maun facility to contribute significantly to domestic supply once operational, easing pressure on imports and supporting industrial expansion.
Construction timelines and commissioning dates are expected to be announced following financial close.
JN/APA