In a significant move aimed at advancing renewable energy deployment in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the leading infrastructure solutions provider in Africa, has partnered with SkyPower Global to enter a Joint Development Agreement for the first phase of SkyPower’s Green Giant project in the DRC. This initial phase, comprising 200MW, marks a crucial step towards realizing the landmark 1,000MW Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) signed between SkyPower and the DRC’s state-owned utility, Société Nationale d’Electricité (SNEL).
The collaboration between AFC and SkyPower combines the former’s proven track record in successfully de-risking and financing well-structured infrastructure projects across Africa with the latter’s extensive global experience in developing large-scale solar projects. This partnership underscores both organizations’ commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly emphasizing the pivotal role of partnerships in accelerating renewable energy adoption and combating climate change, especially in the aftermath of COP28.
The DRC Green Giant project, initiated with the signing of the initial PPA with SNEL, signifies a historic commitment from the DRC government to bolster electrification rates through renewable energy partnerships. President Félix Tshisekedi’s strategic vision aims to significantly enhance the nation’s clean energy output, projecting a substantial boost to the DRC’s GDP and the creation of around 30,000 job years.
The Joint Development Agreement is poised to expedite the construction of the first 200MW phase of the project, with all requisite approvals secured and land allocation completed. This ensures a swift transition to the development stage, with construction slated to commence by 2025. The agreement serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between SkyPower, AFC, and the DRC, signaling sustainable economic development and a cleaner, more resilient future for the region, while also providing a model for future joint initiatives.
Amadou Wadda, Senior Director of Project Development and Technical Solutions at Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), expressed the alignment of the partnership with AFC’s mission to advance energy access on the continent through renewable energy. Kerry Adler, President & Chief Executive Officer of SkyPower, highlighted AFC’s leadership role in fast-tracking essential energy projects and its commitment to leveraging solar energy for economic development, job creation, and climate change mitigation.
In conclusion, the partnership between AFC and SkyPower underscores a collective effort toward realizing ambitious goals set by forward-looking countries like the DRC, aiming for a brighter and more sustainable future. This agreement emphasizes AFC’s pivotal role in promoting renewable energy solutions and the unwavering commitment of both organizations to a greener, more resilient world.