AfDB’s SEFA Empowers Africa’s Hydropower Revolution with $9.72M Boost
The African Development Bank’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) is spearheading a transformative initiative by granting $9.72 million to propel the Africa Hydropower Modernisation Programme (AHMP). This strategic move aims to revamp African hydropower systems, elevating their reliability and flexibility to new heights.
The recently approved funding is set to fuel the expansion of AHMP, a comprehensive initiative acting as a one-stop shop for the overhaul of hydropower infrastructure across the continent. The program is geared towards enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of hydroelectric projects, thereby contributing to Africa’s broader energy landscape.
With the infusion of the new funding, AHMP is poised to scale up its impact by modernizing a pipeline of 12 private-sector-led projects across eight countries. The selection process for these projects was conducted through a rigorous and competitive evaluation, ensuring that the chosen ventures align with the program’s overarching goals.
The primary focus of these modernization efforts is not only to enhance the reliability and flexibility of existing hydropower systems but also to boost the available capacity. The infusion of an estimated $1 billion in investment, including contributions from the private sector, will lead to substantial physical works and preparation activities. These endeavors are projected to result in an additional 570 megawatts of available capacity, a significant leap forward for Africa’s energy sector.
An integral aspect of the modernization initiative is its potential impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The approved grant is expected to curtail emissions by an impressive 1,700 kilotons of CO2 equivalent per year. This aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and underscores the sustainable nature of the AHMP’s endeavors.
The approval of the $9.72 million grant on November 21, 2023, marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards a greener and more efficient energy landscape in Africa. The significance of this funding extends beyond financial support; it symbolizes a commitment to sustainable development and the elevation of hydropower as a crucial component of Africa’s energy mix.
Among the notable projects encompassed in this initiative is the upgrade of the cooling water system for Sudan’s 280-megawatt Roseires plant. The objective is to minimize forced outages, thereby improving the overall performance and longevity of the facility. Additionally, the AHMP will address the aging infrastructure of the 7-megawatt Lubilanji 1 plant in the Democratic Republic of Congo by replacing electromechanical equipment that has surpassed 60 years of service.
In conclusion, the SEFA’s approval of $9.72 million for the Africa Hydropower Modernisation Programme signifies a groundbreaking step towards a sustainable and resilient energy future for Africa. The infusion of funds will not only enhance the capacity and efficiency of hydropower systems but also contribute to mitigating the impact of climate change. This transformative initiative is a testament to the African Development Bank’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and addressing the evolving energy needs of the continent.
Source: Independent