DRC Energizes Industrial Growth as Inga II Sends First 50 MW to Kamoa Copper
DRC Delivers First 50 MW From Inga II to Kamoa: $450M Energy Partnership Accelerates Grid Modernization
A major step toward modernizing the Democratic Republic of Congo’s electricity network has been achieved. On November 10, 2025, the first 50 MW of hydroelectric power from Turbine 5 of the Inga II power plant was successfully delivered to the Kamoa Copper mining complex, marking the beginning of a new phase in the country’s energy sector.
The delivery follows a strategic partnership between the National Electricity Company (SNEL) and Ivanhoe Mines Energy DRC (IVEN), a sister company of Kamoa.
This initial supply forms part of Phase One of a $450 million investment by IVEN aimed at rehabilitating and modernizing the national grid. The funding covers the refurbishment of the Mwadingusha dam, the full recommissioning of Turbine 5 at Inga II, and a series of upgrades designed to boost power capacity, stability, and reliability.
The newly supplied 50 MW of clean energy will support the launch of Kamoa’s new copper smelter—touted as the largest and most environmentally friendly in Africa scheduled to begin operations this November.
Under the agreement, power supply will increase progressively in early 2026 and further during the first half of 2027. These expansions depend on the completion of key grid stabilization upgrades, including the installation of resistors, harmonic filters, and a static compensator at both the Inga and Kolwezi substations. These improvements form an integral part of the broader public–private partnership.
For the DRC, this partnership offers a compelling model for national development. While guaranteeing energy for Kamoa’s operations, the project also strengthens the country’s electricity infrastructure. Over time, these upgrades will enhance the entire network, benefiting surrounding communities and other economic sectors.
As the project advances, Kamoa is poised to further solidify its position among the world’s top copper producers. More importantly, the initiative illustrates a viable pathway for addressing the chronic energy shortages that have long hindered industrial growth across the DRC.
