Africa-Press – Botswana. Sandfire Resources has secured a major renewable energy agreement to develop a 21 megawatt solar power plant at its Motheo Copper operation near Ghanzi in the Kalahari Copper Belt, western Botswana. The project will supply clean energy to the Motheo mine and is expected to cover about 30 percent of its annual electricity demand. Through its wholly owned Botswana subsidiary Tshukudu Metals, Sandfire entered into a deal with Release, a subsidiary of Norwegian renewable energy company Scatec ASA. This marks a significant step in integrating large scale renewable energy into mining operations in Botswana and across Africa. The initiative forms part of Sandfire’s broader decarbonisation strategy aimed at lowering emissions and improving energy efficiency.
The solar plant is projected to generate about 40 gigawatt hours of electricity each year, reducing the mine’s dependence on diesel powered generation. By supplying a substantial portion of process power, the project will also ease pressure linked to regional grid constraints. Construction began in February 2026, with commercial operations expected before the end of the year. The Botswana Energy Regulatory Authority has approved the development, clearing a key regulatory milestone for implementation. Sandfire continues to engage Botswana Power Corporation to explore additional renewable energy opportunities that can further strengthen energy security at the mine.
The project operates under a lease to own model, allowing Sandfire to access renewable energy infrastructure without heavy upfront capital costs. This financing structure combines technical expertise with flexible payment arrangements, making it easier for mining companies to transition to solar power. Hans Olav Kvalvaag, CEO of Release, said the agreement demonstrates how innovative financing can unlock large scale solar adoption in emerging markets. He noted that introducing this model in Botswana represents a major milestone for the company and supports sustainable mining practices. The approach lowers financial risk while delivering reliable and cost effective clean energy.
Release is owned by Scatec and Climate Fund Managers through the EU supported Climate Investor One Fund, a blended finance facility valued at one billion US dollars and focused on renewable energy infrastructure in emerging markets. The company deploys re deployable solar photovoltaic and battery systems designed to provide stable, low cost power solutions. For Sandfire’s Motheo Copper Project, this investment strengthens long term operational resilience while reducing carbon intensity. The 21 MW solar plant positions the Motheo mine as a leading example of clean energy integration in African mining. As global demand for responsibly sourced copper grows, renewable powered operations will play a critical role in meeting sustainability expectations and supporting Botswana’s energy transition.
