Botswana Breaks Ground on Landmark 500MW Maun Solar Project

Botswana Breaks Ground on Landmark 500MW Maun Solar Project. Botswana has marked a historic milestone in its energy transformation journey with the groundbreaking ceremony and signing of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for the 500MW Maun Solar Photovoltaic Plant and 500MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The project is one of the most ambitious renewable energy initiatives in the country’s history.

Officiating at the ceremony, President Duma Boko described the development as a decisive shift from planning to execution, signaling Botswana’s commitment to a secure, sustainable, and affordable energy future.

Implemented through a Government-to-Government partnership with the Sultanate of Oman, and executed by the Botswana Power Corporation in collaboration with Okavango Solar, the project will inject 500MW of clean energy into the national grid once completed.

A key feature of the initiative is the 500MWh Battery Energy Storage System, designed to store solar-generated electricity during the day and release it during peak demand periods. This innovation will enhance grid stability and strengthen national energy security.

President Boko emphasized Botswana’s target to increase renewable energy’s share in the national generation mix to 50% by 2030, up from the current baseline of approximately 8%, in line with the revised Integrated Resource Plan. “This is not merely a project, it is a clear statement that Botswana is poised to become a regional energy hub,” he remarked.

With over 3,200 hours of sunshine annually and among the highest solar irradiation levels globally, Botswana is uniquely positioned to lead in solar energy generation and regional power exports.

The Maun Solar Project builds on progress in Mmadinare and Jwaneng, where two 100MW solar projects are advancing. Developed under an Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, the Maun plant will operate under a 30-year PPA.

Beyond energy security, the project is expected to reduce Botswana’s carbon footprint, lower reliance on imports, stimulate investment inflows, and create opportunities for citizen participation in the green economy.