Botswana has launched a floating solar tender for a feasibility study on solar installations at its dams, aiming to boost renewable energy generation. The tender — open to international bidders — seeks to explore the potential of floating solar projects at major dams.
Floating Solar Power to be Generated at Botswana’s Largest Dams
Botswana has taken a significant step towards renewable energy integration by launching a tender for a feasibility study on floating solar projects at its dams. The country’s Water Utilities Corporation (WUC) — a state-owned entity — is seeking a company to conduct an assessment and technical feasibility study for floating solar installations at multiple locations.
Floating Solar Power
The tender is open to international bidders and aims to explore the potential of floating solar power generation at Botswana’s largest dams. This power generation will contribute to the nation’s energy transition.
WUC’s announcement highlights the strategic importance of utilising water reservoirs for solar energy. Floating solar — a technology that involves placing solar panels on bodies of water such as dams — has gained global attention for its ability to generate clean energy without occupying valuable land.
In Botswana — where water resources are managed through various dams — this innovation could provide an efficient solution to expand renewable energy capacity while minimising environmental impact.
Floating Solar Tender Details
The floating solar tender is part of WUC’s initiative to explore renewable energy options as the country seeks to diversify its power generation sources. According to the tender announcement, interested companies must conduct a feasibility study on floating solar installations at the Gaborone, Bokaa, Lotsane, Letsibogo, and Dikgatlhong dams.
Among the dams, the Gaborone and Dikgatlhong dams stand out as the largest in the country. This makes them prime locations for the potential deployment of floating solar systems. This tender is open to both local and international bidders.
Site visits have already been conducted at the specified dams, allowing potential bidders to gather necessary information for their submissions. The full tender details are available for purchase on the WUC website for BWP 1,100 ($82.18), and submissions must be received by October 3.
Botswana’s Growing Solar Energy Ambitions
The floating solar tender comes when Botswana is expanding its solar energy capacity. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the country had only 6 MW of installed solar capacity by the end of 2023.
However, Botswana has set ambitious goals for its renewable energy future. The country’s Integrated Resource Plan aims to secure 200 MW of renewable energy by 2030, with a long-term target of integrating 50% renewable energy into the national energy mix by 2036.
In August 2023, Botswana Power Corporation — the state-owned electricity utility — signed a power purchase agreement for a 100 MW solar plant in the southern part of the country. The project, set to begin operation by 2025, marks a significant step towards achieving these targets.
The agreement was signed with Sinotswana Green Energy, a consortium of Chinese and local companies, thereby reflecting Botswana’s efforts to attract international partnerships in its renewable energy drive.
The Role of Floating Solar in Botswana’s Renewable Future
As Botswana continues to explore renewable energy options, floating solar could become a key component of the country’s energy strategy. Floating solar projects offer numerous benefits; this include efficient land use, reduced evaporation from water bodies, and enhanced solar panel performance due to the cooling effect of water.
The floating solar tender initiated by WUC is part of Botswana’s broader plan to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. If the feasibility study proves successful, Botswana could become one of the pioneers in Africa for deploying large-scale floating solar systems.
Botswana’s launch of a floating solar tender marks an important step toward its renewable energy goals. As Botswana aims to integrate 50% renewable energy into its national energy mix by 2036, floating solar could become a vital part of its energy strategy.