DRC Advances Energy Sector with Inga II and Renewable Projects

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is taking significant steps to enhance its energy sector, with the G25 group of the Inga II Hydroelectric Power Plant set to produce an additional 1.2 million megawatt hours upon its rehabilitation.

This development was highlighted by President Félix Tshisekedi during his December 11, 2024, State of the Nation address to Parliament.

President Tshisekedi emphasized the centrality of energy to the country’s socio-economic transformation, stating, “Sustainable economic growth requires reliable, affordable, and sustainable access to energy. It drives raw material transformation, technological innovation, and competitiveness.”

Key energy initiatives under implementation include:

1. SNEL SA’s Master Plan (2024–2028):
   • Rehabilitation of the Inga-Kolwezi direct current line, converter stations, and production parks.
   • Transit capacity to rise from 600 MW to 800 MW by early 2025 and to 1,105 MW by 2028.
2. Inga II G25 Rehabilitation:
   • The G25 group will add 1.2 million megawatt hours to the grid upon completion.
3. Lungudi Hydropower Plant Expansion:
   • Addition of a 4 MW module, increasing capacity from 2 MW to 6 MW by October 2026, benefiting Tshikapa residents with electricity and drinking water.
4. Funa Substation Upgrade:
   • New cabins and upgrades to benefit 62,758 households, reducing reliance on wood energy.
5. Private Sector Network Densification in North and South Kivu:
   • Electricity supplied to 26,000 households and businesses, impacting over 210,000 people despite security challenges.
6. Rehabilitation of Inga II Groups G23, G24, and G26:
   • These upgrades will eventually add 2 million megawatt hours to meet growing demand.
7. Solar Power Initiatives:
   • Construction of 26 solar power plants across various territories, expected to generate 15.9 MW by mid-2025 and benefit 238,875 households.
   • Implementation of 50 rural electrification projects with a $89 million budget, connecting 47,400 households and supporting local economic activities.
8. New Transmission Lines and Electrification Projects:
   • Electrification of towns and villages, including Boya, Miabi, Katende, Lusanga, and Kabeya-Kamwanga, improving service in Mbuji-Mayi.
   • Completion of projects in Mayidi, Ngeba, Malanga, and Katogota, connecting new homes and transforming communities.

These projects underscore the government’s commitment to providing affordable and sustainable energy, a critical driver of development in the DRC.