Power Crisis in Southeast DRC Disrupts Mining Operations
The mining sector in the southeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is grappling with a severe power shortage, stemming from disruptions in electricity supply from neighboring Zambia.
The crisis, which began on November 24, 2024, has left mining operations—critical to the DRC’s economy—in a vulnerable state.
Zambia, a key electricity supplier to the DRC, is facing dwindling water levels at its hydropower dams and delays in expanding its energy infrastructure.
These challenges have led to widespread power restrictions. Meanwhile, the DRC’s own hydropower capacity is strained by rising demand and outdated infrastructure.
Although the Zambian energy regulator has promised a gradual restoration of supply, the crisis has already had ripple effects. Compounding the issue, Zambia recently increased the price of diesel by 4.2%, which, despite the hike, remains more affordable than fuel sourced from Matadi in the DRC’s west.
The power shortage has hit mining companies hard, particularly the multinational firms operating in the DRC. These companies face production slowdowns and are incurring higher costs to secure alternative energy, often resorting to diesel-powered generators.
During a televised address, the Congolese Minister of Hydroelectric Resources stressed Zambia’s critical role in the DRC’s mining sector, stating: “Zambia injects 250 megawatts into the DRC to sustain mining operations. Without this, our economy will falter, as the sector generates $8 billion of our GDP.”
This crisis underscores the urgent need for the DRC to strengthen its domestic energy infrastructure. Diversifying energy sources and reviving stalled dam projects are key to reducing the country’s dependence on external suppliers and ensuring long-term energy security for its mining sector, which is vital to the nation’s economic stability.
