Mozambique advocates for increased investment in regional energy interconnection as an essential strategy to ensure the security and sustainability of electricity supply on the African continent. The position was presented by the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Estêvão Pale, during a recent meeting in Botswana focused on energy transition and sustainability within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The minister emphasized that, to maximize the region’s energy potential, strong investment in the construction of electricity transmission infrastructure is necessary.
“We must invest in harnessing our renewable energy resources, ensuring that this effort aligns with favorable policies and increased financing, particularly in the area of electricity transmission lines,” he stated.
Mozambique plays a strategic role in the region’s energy sector, as evidenced by key projects such as the Mphanda Nkuwa Hydroelectric Plant and the Temane Thermal Power Plant.
These initiatives are expected to generate approximately 2,000 megawatts over the next five years, contributing to domestic supply and energy exports, thereby driving industrial and economic development in SADC.
The country has made significant progress in national electrification, with electricity access rates increasing from 29% in 2018 to 60% last year. However, Pale warned of persistent challenges, particularly the need to improve transmission infrastructure between the North and South to ensure a more stable and higher-quality supply.
The minister also highlighted ongoing power interconnection projects, such as the Mozambique-Malawi (400 kV) line and studies for the Mozambique-Zambia (400 kV) connection, which should strengthen the country’s position as an energy supplier in the region.
Beyond hydroelectric power, Mozambique is also investing in renewable sources such as solar, wind, biomass, and natural gas to diversify and strengthen the national and regional energy matrix.
The meeting in Botswana brought together political leaders and industry experts to discuss sustainable energy transition strategies in the region, in the face of growing demand and the need to modernize SADC’s electrical infrastructure.
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