Shanghai Electric, a Chinese group active in the power sector, has teamed up with the Congolese Ministry of Electricity, on two key projects. Local media in the DR Congo confirmed the news, citing a press release. 

According to the two sources, Shanghai Electric and the ministry inked two memoranda of understanding related to the projects. Under the first agreement, Shanghai will conduct a feasibility study for a projected power plant in the Tshopo province. Under the second agreement, the Chinese group will build transmission lines between Kinshasa, the capital, and Kwilu and Kwango provinces.

Regarding the project in Tshopo, a 2023 report issued by the DRC’s Regulatory Agency for Electricity indicates that the province’s single dam provides only 6.8 MW while having an installed capacity of 21.3 MW. The dam also needed regular maintenance. 

Regarding the second project, it is not yet known if the transmission lines will move power from Kinshasa to Kwilu and Kwango or vice-versa.  Kinshasa, the country’s most populous city and province, is a major economic hub, but it has an electricity access rate of around 44%, according to official data.

The DRC is one of the most promising markets for electricity. The country, which is seeking to diversify its economy by developing the agro-industry and primary processing of its mineral resources, has a significant need for electricity, yet its available capacity falls short of potential demand.

Last year, in October, Congolese President, Felix Tshisekedi inaugurated a power substation in Kinsuka, in the western part of Kinshasa. The facility was built by Shangai Electric. 

Georges Auréole Bamba