BPC awards electrification project to 60 citizen companies
Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) has partnered with 60 citizen owned companies to electrify six new villages and extend network in 28 villages across the country. The project has been allocated a total budget of P50 million and funds have already been disbursed.
Launching the electrification project in Lepashe recently, BPC Chief Executive Officer, David Kgoboko said citizen-owned construction companies and Consulting firms will be engaged to assist with the implementation of the project.
“BPC has partnered with over 60 Citizen Owned companies prequalified to work on our infrastructure.” He said the Project will undoubtedly enhance livelihoods in the villages by catalyzing a range of income-generating activities - leading to socio economic development. “I would like to assure the residents of Lepashe, and all the villages earmarked for electrification that BPC will deliver the project on time and to the right quality.” Minister of Minerals and Energy, Lefhoko Moagi urged the Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMME) to take advantage of electrification of the villages to support and improve in doing business, in order to attain high income economy. “I strongly believe that with the project delivered and Lepashe connected to electricity, that a number of improvement and increased achievements should be seen and enjoyed very soon.”
For her part, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Minerals and Energy, Ellen Richard – Madisa said government is looking into providing a solution for other areas through an Off-Grid Solar solution. “The Off-Grid solution or programme that is still under incubation, anticipates utilization of stand-alone and cluster solar photovoltaic power generated and isolated grid systems where necessary.”
She highlighted that currently, electricity access is growing at an annual average growth rate of about 2.5 percent. “Availability of electricity can assist the country in achieving the most needed technology integration and digitalization, which is required for national economic transformation and a key driver for attaining the 4th Industrial Revolution. This would also assist in transforming the country into a high income level status.”