COMPETITIVE TARIFFS TO LURE GOVERNMENT TO CMB POWER

Minerals Resources, Green Technology and Energy Minister, Eric Molale, announced this week that government is ready to support scaling up of coal bed methane production in the country. Addressing mining players at the annual Botswana Resource Sector Conference (BRSC), the minister said following awarding of tenders to gas prospecting companies – Tlou Energy and Sekaname, government has intentions to further tap into the sector.“Should there be proof that they do have adequate resources, power production, could be ramped up for as long as they give us competitive tariffs that are both economic and reasonably affordable,” said Molale. Last week government preferred bidder status on Sekaname and Tlou Energy following response to a government tender issued towards end of the year. Meanwhile, the minister has reiterated that mineral beneficiation is one of the key focus area for government. “The end result of which is to create employment opportunities for citizens and generate value in the economy through the development of new industries,” said Molale. He said more attention is being given to diamonds, as government intends to develop a vibrant cutting and polishing industry and a jewelry manufacturing sector. Molale added that other economic diversification activities through beneficiation will be in base metals, refocusing exploration of solar power storage battery minerals such as nickel, cobalt, manganese and the rare earth minerals.