Copperbelt's resource wealth and infrastructure gap

The Copperbelt region in the DRC is rich in valuable minerals like cobalt, copper, uranium, and manganese, which are crucial for renewable energy technologies. However, the area lacks the necessary infrastructure to fully utilize these resources, particularly in terms of energy supply.

Energy shortage limits mining development

The region's energy deficit is a major obstacle to the growth of its mining industry, which is vital for the global shift toward clean energy. Without reliable electricity, local operations face significant challenges in production and processing.

International consortium plans electricity project

A group of companies, including the Congolese firm EnPower and the Singaporean mining company Trafigura, has announced plans to build an electricity transmission line to address the energy shortage. This initiative is backed by several investment funds, including Gridworks from the UK and the DRC’s own Strategic Investment Fund.

Project details and funding

The Kalumbila–Kolwezi Interconnector Project (KKIP) aims to deliver 700 MW of electricity, with an estimated cost of 300 million USD. The electricity will be sourced from Zambia and distributed through the Southern African Power Pool, ensuring a stable supply for the DRC’s Copperbelt region.

Electricity will come from Zambia

The project will transport electricity from the ZESCO substation in Kalumbila, Zambia, to Kolwezi in the DRC. This cross-border transmission line is expected to provide a reliable power source for the region’s industrial and economic development.