Botswana Power Corporation Explained

Botswana Power Corporation
Type:Public utility
Services:Electricity
Industry:Energy industry
Parent:Government of Botswana
Location:Motlakase House, Macheng Way
Hq Location City:Gaborone
Hq Location Country:Botswana

Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) is a state-owned company for electrical power generation, transmission and distribution in Botswana. It was established in 1970 and is currently the only electricity supplier in the country. BPC represents Botswana in the Southern African Power Pool. Morupule Power Station (coal-fired) in Palapye supplies 80% of domestically generated electricity, however the country is dependent on importing energy from its neighbours. Its capacity is estimated to be around 132 MW. The region's main power supplier, South Africa, is experiencing its own problems with under-capacity blackouts. A plan to boost Morupule station with four new 150 MW units is underway and gathering financial support from several sources.[1]

History

Botswana Power Corporation was formed in 1970 after the Botswana Parliament passed the Botswana Power Corporation Act.[2] BPC produced an estimated 1,052 GWh in 2007, while demand was estimated to 2,648 GWh.[3]

Capacity

Total electricity produced locally by BPC;[4]

!Plant name!Type!Output
Morupule AThermal132MW
Morupule BThermal600MW
Matshelagabedi (Emergency Plant)Diesel70MW
Orapa (Emergency Plant)Diesel90MW
Phakalane Solar StationSolar1.3MW

See also

Notes and References

  1. Web site: allafrica.com - Botswana: Construction of 600 MW Morupule B Power Station Begins . 2010-04-12.
  2. Web site: Botswana Power Corporation Act. 13 February 2022. Botswana Power Corporation.
  3. Web site: CIA factbook - Botswana. 2010-04-12.
  4. Web site: Annual Reports BPC. 2022-02-13. www.bpc.bw.