Mozambique smart grid and energy management

Why is Mozambique a major energy exporter?

Mozambique is a net exporter of energy to countries in the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) – South Africa being the largest importer. The government view energy exports as a key driver of the Mozambican economy, having passed a new electricity law that simplifies permitting and encourages IPPs activities.

Why is rural electrification a priority in Mozambique?

To mitigate the cost of expanding the grid to rural areas, the Government of Mozambique has made rural electrification development a priority led by the Mozambique Energy Fund Institute (FUNAE), which focuses on small, off-grid projects of less than 10MW. Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM) is the sole electrical utility in the country.

Will Mozambican achieve universal energy access by 2030?

An important task, considering that the Mozambican government has set the target to realize universal energy access by 2030. The project Renewable Energy for Rural Development, Phase 2 (RERD2+) of Enabel aims to support FUNAE in the development and operation of sustainable energy services in rural areas.

What is EDM doing in Mozambique?

EDM and Mozambique support the development of renewable energy projects, having launched public tenders for solar and wind projects, the country is also exploring battery storage solutions. The largest power generation plant in the country is the Cahora Bassa hydro dam, operated by the government owned Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa (HCB).

When did independent power projects start in Mozambique?

The first Independent Power Projects (IPPs) in Mozambique came online in 2015. These projects have paved the way for future IPP negotiations and, more recently, the standardization of tendering documents. Given EDM’s weak financial capabilities, future IPPs will continue to rely on development banks for financing.

Will gas-based generation increase in Mozambique in 2025?

According to BMI Research, gas-based generation is expected to increase by 18.1% annually through 2025. Mozambique’s first utility-scale solar power plant, a photovoltaic plant with a capacity of 40MW, was commissioned in Zambezia Province in 2019.