Botswana Plans 100 MW Power Exports by 2027 as Regional Energy Trade Expands
Botswana is targeting electricity exports of at least 100 megawatts (MW) by the end of 2027, with Zambia among the regional markets it hopes to supply as it strengthens domestic generation and cross-border transmission infrastructure.
The target forms part of Botswana’s broader strategy to achieve electricity self-sufficiency and transition from reliance on imported power to becoming a potential net exporter within the Southern African Power Pool.
Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, said the country was accelerating investment in electricity generation, transmission and energy storage to improve supply security and support industrial development.
According to recent sector reporting, domestic generation met approximately 86% of Botswana’s electricity requirements in 2026, up from 67% previously.
The country aims to eliminate its dependence on electricity imports while developing capacity to supply neighbouring markets.
Transmission Infrastructure Key to Exports
Establishing reliable transmission links will be critical to enabling electricity trade between Botswana and Zambia.
Botswana is pursuing upgrades to its north-western transmission grid, including a proposed 400-kilovolt (kV) connection to Zambia through Kazungula.
The project is intended to strengthen cross-border electricity transfers and increase the capacity of the regional network.
A feasibility study is underway to assess upgrading the transmission infrastructure from 200 kV to 400 kV.
The project is also seeking private-sector participation through potential public-private partnership arrangements.
The planned connection could strengthen regional power trade, diversify electricity supply options and improve energy security for countries facing generation constraints.
Energy Security and Industrial Development
Botswana’s electricity expansion strategy also aims to provide a more reliable supply for mining, manufacturing and other energy-intensive industries.
The country has been increasing investment in renewable energy alongside its existing coal-fired generation capacity.
Its longer-term plans include raising the contribution of renewables to 50% by 2030 and developing additional generation capacity that could serve regional markets.
For Zambia, potential electricity imports from Botswana could provide another source of supply as the country works to meet demand from households, businesses and the mining sector.
However, the volume and timing of any exports will depend on Botswana’s generation capacity, transmission infrastructure and cross-border trading arrangements.
The proposed cooperation reflects wider efforts across Southern Africa to strengthen interconnected electricity markets, improve the use of available generation capacity and reduce exposure to supply disruptions.
Achieving Botswana’s 2027 export target will depend on the timely delivery of generation and transmission projects, as well as the commercial and technical arrangements required to facilitate electricity trade with Zambia and other regional partners.
