Botswana wind power with energy storage

Does Botswana have limited wind potential?

Since the release of this study, the World Bank Group (ESMAP) and IRENA have published more recent solar atlases covering Botswana. These atlases have been created using similar algorithms as the 2016 resource assessment study. According to these studies, it appears some areas may present limited wind potential.

What is the Wind Atlas of Botswana?

The renewable energy resource assessment study (MMEWR, 2016a) produced the Wind Atlas of Botswana, calculated from mesoscale atmospheric model outcomes and downscaling models. These simulations do not provide bankable information but are relevant for high-level energy planning.

Does Botswana have an Integrated Resource Plan?

Botswana has also issued an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) for electricity generation over the next 20 years, covering renewable energy technologies such as solar photovoltaic, wind, concentrated solar thermal, and batteries for energy storage.

What is Botswana's energy potential?

For Botswana, the following technical potentials were identified: Wind (high capacity factor) – 1 152 MW. The least-cost analysis estimated a potential of 199 MW from renewable energy, 139 MW of which in utility-scale projects and 60 MW of-grid. The firm reserve margin would reach 23% in 2030, with zero net imports.

How much electricity does Botswana import?

Botswana imported 70 GWh, 127 GWh and 200 GWh of electricity from the Southern African Power Pool in 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. Energy is recognised globally as essential to the economic development of any country and is considered a key driver for economic growth in the most important sectors of the economy. n.d).

Who regulates the electricity sector in Botswana?

The Ministry of Mineral Resources, Green Technology and Energy Security (MMGE) leads the electricity sector through the Department of Energy, while the Botswana Energy Regulatory Authority (BERA) is tasked with regulating the sector by guaranteeing a competitive environment.