DRC Inkisi Hydropower Project Targets 250 MW Output as SNEL Plans Grid Expansion and Private Investment
SNEL Advances 250 MW Inkisi Hydropower Project as DRC Focuses on Expanding Electricity Supply Capacity
The National Electricity Company of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (SNEL) has announced plans to relaunch the Inkisi hydropower project, with a projected generation capacity of up to 250 megawatts and an estimated construction timeline of 36 months.
The update was presented on May 8, 2026, at the National Assembly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo by SNEL Director-General Teddy Lwamba Muba.
The presentation outlined a strategy centred on upgrading electricity infrastructure, securing financing, and involving private sector partners in project development.
Project overview
The Inkisi hydroelectric project is intended to increase national electricity generation capacity.
It is being developed in collaboration with relevant government institutions, including the Ministry of Portfolio and the Ministry responsible for hydraulic resources and electricity.
SNEL indicated that preparatory steps, including financing discussions and engagement with potential private partners, have progressed in recent months to support the project’s relaunch.
Electricity supply context
The project comes amid ongoing efforts to improve electricity access and reliability in the country. According to World Bank data, electricity access in the DRC was estimated at approximately 22.1% in 2023.
The electricity sector continues to face challenges related to generation capacity, transmission infrastructure, distribution efficiency, and technical losses across the network.
While new generation projects such as Inkisi are expected to contribute additional capacity, the effectiveness of supply improvements will also depend on the condition of transmission and distribution systems.
Existing infrastructure constraints, including aging equipment and technical losses, remain key factors affecting electricity delivery to end users.
Financing and implementation approach
SNEL has indicated that the Inkisi project may involve a mix of public and private financing structures.
The approach is intended to support infrastructure expansion while improving the pace of project delivery.
Stakeholders in the energy sector continue to emphasize the importance of clear contractual frameworks, stable regulatory conditions, and effective project management to support long-term infrastructure development.
The Inkisi hydropower project is positioned as part of broader efforts to expand electricity generation capacity in the DRC.
Its implementation over the planned 36-month period will depend on financing arrangements, construction progress, and integration into the national electricity grid.
Once completed, the project is expected to contribute additional power to the system, alongside ongoing initiatives aimed at improving transmission and distribution infrastructure.
