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Invest in hydropower to tackle coronavirus and climate crisis impacts -2020 Hydropower Status Report by IHA
(28/05/2020)
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The Covid-19 pandemic has underlined hydropower’s resilience and critical role in delivering clean, reliable and affordable energy, especially in times of crisis. This is the conclusion of two new reports published today by the International Hydropower Association (IHA).
The 2020 Hydropower Status Report presents latest worldwide installed capacity and generation data, showcasing the sector’s contribution to global carbon reduction efforts. It is published alongside a Covid-19 paper featuring recommendations for governments, financial institutions and industry to respond to the current health and economic crisis.
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Singrobo hydropower project to deliver electricity under a 35-year PPA
(27/05/2020)
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The Themis Group announced it has issued a Full Notice to Proceed (FNTP) with construction of the 44MW Singrobo Hydropower Project, in Ivory Coast.
Sponsored by a consortium including the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and IHE Holding, a local development company, Singrobo will begin delivering much needed electricity to the Ivorian power grid via a 35-year PPA with the national off taker, CIENERGUES in early 2023.
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Government of Madagascar gets Euro 4 million from African Development Fund for Sahofika hydropower project
(22/05/2020)
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The African Development Fund has approved a 4.02 million euro loan with a grant component to finance the Government of Madagascar’s 30 million euro equity investment in the Sahofika hydropower project, which will generate affordable, clean energy benefiting some 8 million people.
The Sahofika project is located on the Onive River, 100 km southeast of the capital Antananarivo. It entails the construction of a 205 MW hydroelectric power plant on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer basis and includes the construction and rehabilitation of 110 km of access roads and construction of a 75 km, 220 kV transmission line. Once commissioned, the Sahofika project is expected to contribute to the avoidance of 900,000 tons of CO2 equivalent annually.
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EEP Africa on how to COVID-proof early stage clean energy companies
(07/05/2020)
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By Anouk Verheijen and Faith Chege, EEP Africa Portfolio Coordinators for Southern and East Africa
The global economy is dealing with an unprecedented set of challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many other sectors, early stage clean energy companies are heavily affected by the current crisis and the response of governments to it. Travel restrictions are hindering sales, distribution and repair of products. Prohibitions on large gatherings are limiting grassroots marketing efforts. Customers are struggling to pay energy bills and commission-based employees are unable to earn a living wage. New renewable energy projects are also stalled due to slower licencing and permit processes as governments focus on the acute health and economic crises in their country.
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'Beyond the Grid Fund' for Africa expands to Uganda
(07/05/2020)
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The Embassy of Sweden, Kampala, Nordic Environment Finance Corporation (NEFCO) and the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnership (REEEP) are pleased to announce the expansion of the Beyond the Grid Fund for Africa (BGFA) initiative into Uganda. The aim is to stimulate the scale up of sustainable business models, which incentivise the private sector to offer affordable and clean off-grid energy access at scale in Uganda.
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Burundi: African Development Bank’s SEFA grants $1 million to support innovative solar-hydro hybrid project
(18/12/2019)
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The African Development Bank-managed Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) has approved a $990,000 grant to support the preparation of a 9-MW solar-hydro hybrid project in Burundi. The project consists of two plants, each featuring a solar and a hydro component as well as a local distribution network and interconnection to the national power grid. The innovative hybrid design is anticipated to regularize the power output during dry and wet season and mitigate power shortfalls caused by climate change.
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BPA Completes Ghana’s First Micro Hydropower Plant
(21/11/2019)
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The Bui Power Authority recently completed Ghana’s first micro-hydropower plant, the Tsatsadu Generating Station, under the Ministry of Energy’s renewable energy initiative. The plant, situated on the Tsatsadu Waterfalls in the Hohoe District of the Volta Region, has a capacity of 45kW with the possibility of adding another 45kW capacity turbine in the future.
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REDAVIA Partners with Lendahand to Crowdfund Upcoming Solar Farms
(25/07/2019)
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REDAVIA, a global market leader of cost-effective, reliable and clean solar power for businesses and communities, has launched a crowdfunding initiative to fund 10 upcoming solar Units in partnership with Lendahand, an online impact investing platform where socially conscious investors can invest in entrepreneurs and sustainable initiatives in emerging countries.
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The European Union and JUMEME inaugurate new solar-powered mini-grid on Lake Victoria’s Mulumo Island in Kagera Region
(24/06/2019)
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JUMEME Rural Power Supply Ltd. (JUMEME), together with the European Union Delegation in Tanzania and its project partners, celebrated the launch of its newly constructed solar-powered mini-grid on Lake Victoria, Mulumo island in the region of Kagera. The facility in Mulumo is one of eleven mini-grids to be commissioned on 10 different islands on Lake Victoria in June 2019, constituting the first roll-out phase of the “Micro Power Economy, Tanzania Roll-out” project cofunded by the EU. Over the last 12 months, JUMEME has constructed more than 180km of low and medium voltage distribution grids, electrifying 20 villages with a total population of more than 80,000 people and providing 24/7 electricity services based on solar-hybrid power systems to residential houses, schools, hospitals, businesses and local entrepreneurs.
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Unilever Tea to install 600kW solar power plant
(29/03/2018)
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Unilever Tea recently signed an agreement with Cross-Boundary Energy for the installation and operation of a 600kW solar power plant at the company’s Kericho tea plantation in Kenya.
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Belgium finances renewable energy projects in Mozambique
(16/03/2018)
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Mozambique and Belgium signed an agreement in Maputo under which the Belgian government has undertaken to provide 12 million euros (about 14.8 million US dollars) for renewable energy projects in remote parts of Mozambique.
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World Bank Group approves refinancing loans for Uganda’s Bujagali hydropower project
(08/03/2018)
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The Board of Directors of IFC and MIGA have approved a plan to refinance more than $400 million of loans to Bujagali Energy Limited and provide up to $423 million in guarantees in support of the Bujagali hydropower project, with the aim to help reduce electricity costs in Uganda, where only one in five people have access to electricity.
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Rafiki Power and Mobisol have partnered to pilot a new approach labelled the Hybrid Grid
(07/03/2018)
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Rafiki Power (E.ON Offgrid solutions GmbH) and Mobisol GmbH have partnered to pilot a new approach labelled the Hybrid Grid for off-grid clients in rural Tanzania. The Hybrid Grid is combining the best of mini-grids and solar home systems to bring higher value and better service to their mutual customers at lower cost. While Rafiki Power will continue to build mini-grid infrastructure, Mobisol will complement the offer and help reduce overall costs by equipping customers lying outside the core perimeter of the mini-grid with their large solar home systems. Both the mini-grid and the solar home system option deliver reliable, clean and affordable energy.
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Small hydropower plant Wanjii in Kenya set to enjoy 20 percent higher output after upgrade
(05/03/2018)
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Technology group Voith is now extensively modernizing the Wanjii small hydropower plant in Kenya, which has been in operation for more than 60 years. The company is replacing the plant's turbines, generators, control technology as well as the electromechanical equipment. This will result in an increase in power plant output by around 20 percent. The extensive modernization works is scheduled for completion in mid-2019.
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REH commissions its third hydro power plant South Africa
(10/08/2016)
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Stortemelk Hydro, the third hydro power plant developed in South Africa by hydro-power
developer, owner and operator, Renewable Energy Holdings (Pty) Ltd (‘REH’) commenced
commercial operations on 29 July 2016. The combined capacity of the REH’s portfolio of
hydro power plants in South Africa is 11MW with an annual generation in excess of 70GWh.
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World Bank looking for a renewable energy consultant in Tanzania
(28/07/2016)
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The Climate and Carbon Finance Unit of the World Bank Group, which manages the Tanzania Renewable Energy Programme as trustee of the Carbon Partnership Facility, together with Rural Energy Agency (REA) of the United Republic of Tanzania.
The World Bank is calling for expressions of interest for a full time local consultant for the programme.
Deadline 18 August 2016.
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EEP opens new Calls for Proposals
(22/03/2016)
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The Energy & Environment Partnership (EEP) has opened two new Calls for Proposals for co-funding renewable energy projects in southern and east Africa. Deadline is 25 April 2016.
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Eco-Fuel Africa wins EEP project of the year award 2015
(15/12/2015)
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The Ugandan based Social Enterprise Eco-Fuel Africa won the prestigious title "Project of the Year 2015" at the annual Knowledge Exchange Forum (KEF) arranged by the Energy and Environment Partnership Programme of Southern and East Africa (EEP S&EA).
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IFC launches mini-grid program to increase energy access in Tanzania
(15/10/2015)
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IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, this week launched a $5 million program to increase access to energy in Tanzania by developing a market for mini-grids. The initiative aims to bring affordable, off-grid renewable energy to households and businesses in rural Tanzania.
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Phase 2 begins for Kenyan 320 kW Ndurumo microhydro project
(27/08/2015)
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Phase 2 of the Ndurumo hydroelectric project on the Kathita River in Meru County, Kenya is set to begin in September with the construction of a penstock for a 320 kW micro-hydroelectric facility. Estimated total cost for the entire project is US$ 580,000.
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AfDB Five-Year energy review finds 14 million people enjoy improved electricity access
(28/04/2015)
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The African Development Bank (AfDB) has released the 2014 edition of its 'Development Effectiveness Review on Energy' (DER). The report, which was produced by AfDB's Quality Assurance and Results and Energy, Environment and Climate Change Departments, focuses on AfDB's energy operations and its contribution to building sustainable energy infrastructure on the African continent from 2009-2013.
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South Africa to add 6.3 GW to future REIPPPP tenders
(16/04/2015)
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South Africa intends to procure an additional 6,300 MW of renewable energy capacity in future tenders following the "extremely successful" fourth bid window, which saw contract awards for 1,121 MW.
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EEP announces Call for Proposals for renewable energy and energy efficiency market creation projects
(05/03/2015)
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The Energy and Environment Partnership Southern and East Africa (EEP S&EA) is a challenge fund that promotes renewable energy, energy efficiency and clean technology investments. EEP S&EA is active in Botswana, Burundi, Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.
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Aurecon appointed EPCM role for Stortemelk hydropower plant
(14/11/2014)
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Construction of the 4.5 MW Stortemelk hydropower plant near Clarens in South Africa has begun after Stortemelk Hydro (Pty) Ltd, an SPV majority owned by Renewable Energy Holdings Pty) Ltd (REH) reached financial close for the development.
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Global green energy awards announces 2015 call for entries
(10/10/2014)
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Seeking African sustainable energy pioneers
Deadline for entries: 4 November 2014
Ashden are looking for applicants for its 2015 Awards, rewarding pioneering sustainable energy organisations, businesses and NGOs with up to GBP 40,000, global media exposure, a tailored business support programme and the chance to become an active member of the Ashden Alumni, sharing sustainable energy knowledge and best practice.
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2014 World Water Week in Stockholm: Africa Focus Day on hydropower
(02/09/2014)
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With Africa registering the lowest electricity generation in the world and hydropower severely underexplored, calls are mounting for leaders of government and industry alike to step up efforts to change the status quo. This emerged on the third day of the 2014 World Water Week in Stockholm, where one of the sub-themes was Africa Focus Day.
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Solar wi-fi lamps to connect rural areas
(21/08/2014)
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South African-based technology company Net1 Mobile Solutions is preparing to roll out the Sun-e-light, a solar-powered lamp which also functions as a mobile phone charger and a wi-fi hotspot, as part of a corporate social responsibility project aimed at opening up the digital world to people in rural areas.
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SMA launches inverter-factory in South Africa
(07/08/2014)
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The SMA Solar Technology AG (SMS) launched an inverter-factory for local production in Cape Town, South Africa. It consists of a production line, storage facilities and a test center for central inverters.
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Solar panel production plant launched in W Cape
(05/08/2014)
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Western Cape Premier Helen Zille says the opening of a solar panel manufacturing plant in Cape Town is good for job creation and has the potential to create secondary industries.
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South African firm builds solar PV weather reference station
(21/07/2014)
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South African firm Sinetech built southern Africa's first accurate solar PV panel and weather reference station on the company's roof at Strijdom Park. It will be used to generate real-time, objective solar PV panel data, in combination with weather data, specific to South Africa but of benefit to a global audience.
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138 MW Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm inaugurated
(10/07/2014)
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Globeleq, the leading private power generation company in Africa has celebrated completion of another of its renewable energy projects in South Africa, the 138 MW Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm located between the towns of Jeffreys Bay and Humansdorp in the Eastern Cape.
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MTN unveils first concentrated solar plant
(10/07/2014)
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Telecommunications giant MTN this week unveiled Africa's first concentrating solar cooling plant, paving the way for South African companies to adopt similar strategies to reduce their carbon footprint.
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South Africa enters solar power world top 10
(08/07/2014)
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South Africa has now connected more than half a gigawatt of utility-scale solar power, moving into the world top 10 of countries harnessing renewable energy from the sun, according to figures released last month by Wiki-Solar.org.
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EoI for small hydro project at the Kafue Gorge Regional Training Centre in Namalundu
(27/06/2014)
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The Kafue Gorge Regional Training Centre (KGRTC) has sourced funds from the Swedish Government for Business Development Phase I of KGRTC, and intends to apply part of the funds towards Consultancy Services to undertake feasibility studies and preparation of tender documents for the construction of a Small Hydropower Station in Namalundu.
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Inauguration of eight hybrid mini-grids in Mali
(25/06/2014)
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On the 25th June 2014, after 3 years of operation, the Foundation Rural Energy Services (FRES) in the Netherlands and its company SSD-EN SA Yeelen Kura, inaugurated the 8 hybrid mini-grids utilized for the power supply of the localities of Koumantou, Kignan, Yorosso, Niena, M'pessoba, Kouri, Ourikela and Kolondiéba.
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UNECA Reports on Energy Access and Security in Eastern Africa
(10/06/2014)
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The UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) has launched a report detailing the state of energy access and security in 14 Eastern African countries. The report finds that Eastern Africa's population has one of the lowest electricity access rates in the world, ranging from 1% in the State of South Sudan (9.3 million people without access) to 22.5% in Ethiopia (nearly 64.5 million without access).
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Renewables 2014 Global Status Report launched
(04/06/2014)
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The Renewables Global Status Report provides a comprehensive and timely overview of renewable energy market, industry, investment and policy developments worldwide. It enables policymakers, industry, investors and civil society to make informed decisions.
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EEP S&EA Programme funding windows are open
(01/06/2014)
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The Energy and Environment Partnership Programme with Southern and East Africa is Programme which is seeking high-quality applications for projects in the two regions that can contribute to the reduction of poverty by promoting inclusive and job-creating green economy and by improving energy security while mitigating global climate change.
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Two of the largest solar energy plants in South Africa come online
(28/05/2014)
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SolarReserve, a leading global developer of utility scale solar power projects and advanced solar thermal technology, today announced that two 75-megawatt (MW-DC) solar photovoltaic (PV) projects have completed construction and are fully operational and successfully helping to power the Eskom South African electric grid with renewable energy.
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1MWp solar PV project bringing clean green energy to Kenyan tea farm
(22/05/2014)
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Williamson Tea has unveiled East Africa's largest solar project at its Changoi Tea Farm in Bomet County, Western Kenya. The solar system will cut Williamson Tea's energy costs by around 30%, supplying clean solar electricity during the daytime to meet most of the tea processing factory's energy demand.
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R3bn solar plants unveiled in Northern Cape
(16/05/2014)
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A consortium led by British company Globeleq officially launched two solar power plants, representing a combined investment of R3-billion, in the Northern Cape this week.
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Thirteen more SMART turbines sold in Nigeria
(15/04/2014)
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Smart Hydro Power recently signed a deal for thirteen additional kinetic water turbines in Nigeria, after the successful installation of two turbines at the end of 2013.
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Results of the 4th National Energy Barometer Survey (NEBS)
(14/04/2014)
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Each year building owners and facility managers enter their buildings in the National Energy Barometer Survey (NEBS) to compare how they have improved their energy use against others in a similar industry - hospitals, offices, car dealers, hotels and shopping centers.
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Bloemwater head office powered by microhydro plant
(14/03/2014)
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During the South African Water Week, which is taking place from March 17 to 23, research body the Water Research Commission (WRC) is launching the Bloemwater hydropower project, in an attempt to save on energy costs for the Bloemfontein area.
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Solar power shines into Africa
(01/03/2014)
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A shopkeeper in the rural Kenyan town of Bomet sells more than 200 small solar lamps each month. After charging in direct sunlight each lamp lights a small room from dusk to dawn.
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NuPlanet looking for PROJECT COORDINATOR
AND ANALYST
(20/02/2014)
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NuPlanet is a renewable energy project developer based in Cape Town. They are part of a group that specialises in the development, ownership and operation of small and medium hydro power plants across Southern Africa.
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First compilation of world's small hydropower data launched
(14/02/2014)
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A new web-based knowledge sharing portal on small hydropower that features best practices from different regions of the world has been launched by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the International Centre on Small Hydro Power (ICSHP). It contains 20 regional overviews and 149 country-level reports.
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MULK OGI - Oasis Gulf Investment, FZC wins Multimillion USD contract in Sierra Leone
(03/02/2014)
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Mulk OGI - Oasis Gulf Investment, FZC, a company of the Sharjah-based diversified conglomerate affiliated to Mulk Holdings , has recently won a multimillion USD contract to provide Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) expertise for the pioneering USD 18 million project, based in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and to become one of West Africa's largest solar parks.
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200,000 MW hydro to light Africa's future - a controversy?
(01/02/2014)
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Within the last ten years the World Bank has invested an estimate of US$ 550 million annually in hydro projects alongside with the African Development Bank's Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) prioritising investment into nine key projects within strategic African regions.
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South Africa demonstrates algae-to-energy technology
(30/01/2014)
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Innovative technology that uses algae to convert waste coal dust into a clean, high-quality coal which can readily be processed into biofuel was publicly demonstrated at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth on Monday.
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Rutile project signs hydroelectric power MOU
(17/01/2014)
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Sierra Rutile Limited has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Smol Pawa Sierra Leone Ltd. with the objective of being a cornerstone purchaser in respect to its Moyamba hydro project.
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SEFA grant provides key support for Morocco wind project
(08/01/2014)
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A US $960,000 Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) grant for the Jbel-Sendoug (Khalladi) Wind Project in Northern Morocco was approved at the end of December 2013 to support outstanding preparation activities to bring the project to bankability.
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UNIDO and ICSHP present the World Small Hydropower Development Report 2013
(30/10/2013)
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The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has collaborated with the China-based International Center on Small Hydro Power (ICSHP) to produce the World Small Hydro Development Report 2013 (WSHPDR 2013) and to develop the first small hydropower knowledge portal providing a global assessment of small hydropower capacities and potential.
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Zera develops feed in tariffs for renewable energy
(20/10/2013)
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The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) is developing a renewable energy feed in tariffs (Refits), a policy structure that makes it mandatory for energy companies responsible for operating the national grid to purchase electricity from renewable energy sources.
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Sod turning for the Grassridge Wind Energy Facility in Port Elizabeth
(16/10/2013)
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Construction of the Grassridge Wind Energy Facility in Nelson Mandela Bay officially began today, with project representatives from the Department of Energy (DoE), InnoWind (Pty) Ltd, PPC Ltd and community representatives from Motherwell turning the first soil of the R 1.2 billion wind farm.
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Renewable Energy in West Africa: Status, Experiences and Trends
(11/10/2013)
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The ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE), Casa Africa and the Instituto Tecnologico de Canarias S.A. (ITC), jointly released the new publication Renewable Energy in West Africa: Status, Experiences and Trends.
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IRENA publishes wind map of Africa
(01/10/2013)
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The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has published a complete wind map of the African continent as part of its Global Atlas for Solar and Wind.
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Power Africa Off-Grid Energy Challenge
(24/09/2013)
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US African Development Foundation and GE Africa are partnering to promote innovative solutions that develop, scale-up or extend the use of proven technologies for off-grid energy - reaching communities not served by existing power grids.
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Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa scales-up operations with USAID support
(23/09/2013)
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The Board of the African Development Bank (AfDB) approved the conversion of the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) - a bilateral trust fund established with funding from the Government of Denmark and administered by the AfDB - into a multi-donor trust fund with a wider remit.
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US agency provides grant to support rooftop solar plans for Western Cape government in South Africa
(11/09/2013)
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The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) awarded a US$ 545 000 grant to the Green Cape Sector Development Agency NPC (Green Cape), serving on behalf of the Western Cape Government's (WCG) Department of Transport and Public Works, to evaluate the technical and financial feasibility of implementing a large-scale rooftop solar photovoltaic project for the generation of renewable energy for the WCG’s own use in its buildings situated in Cape Town's central business district.
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Ashden Awards 2014 call for submissions open
(04/09/2013)
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The search begins today for winners of the 2014 Ashden Awards, offering the chance for sustainable energy trailblazers in the UK and developing world to receive global recognition for their efforts and join an elite community of Ashden alumni.
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DRC's Tshopo hydropower rehabilitated
(02/09/2013)
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The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) saw its Tshopo hydropower plant rehabilitated after the local electric utility, SNEL, asked for help 13 years ago.
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Biogas installation at Northern Water Works inaugurated
(20/08/2013)
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In what has been hailed as a first of its kind in South Africa, City of Johannesburg water utility, Johannesburg Water (JW),officially launched its pilot Biogas Project at the Northern Works Waste Water Treatment Plant on Tuesday, 20 August 2013.
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Map boost for SA wind energy projects
(01/08/2013)
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South Africa's renewable energy efforts ramped up with the launch of the country's first large-scale high-resolution Wind Resource Map on Wednesday.
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Zimbabwean REA to roll out 64 biogas digesters
(24/07/2013)
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The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has invited bids to roll out 64 institutional biogas digesters in the country's eight provinces as it moves to ease the load on the national energy grid.
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Biogas project underway in Zambia
(01/07/2013)
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Home owners in Solwezi, Zambia will be connected to biogas stoves thanks to a project run by the Devolution Trust Fund (DTF).
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Company to build R5m solar PV system at Anglo's Kriel colliery
(20/06/2013)
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Mining major Anglo American has awarded SolarPower Africa the contract to build a 240 kWp grid-connected, ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) system to provide electricity to the central administration offices at the Kriel colliery, in Mpumalanga.
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Electrawinds plans 90 MW windfarm in Kenya
(01/06/2013)
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Electrawinds, a Belgian renewable-energy developer, will work with the World Bank's International Finance Corp. to build a EURO 180 million ($234 million) wind farm in Kenya.
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Voith to upgrade Inga 1 units
(27/05/2013)
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Voith has signed a deal worth more than $ 74 million with Democratic Republic of Congo's electricity utility to refurbish part of the Inga 1 hydropower site
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Green light for Eskom's Sere wind farm
(21/05/2013)
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The National Energy Regulator of South Africa has given state company Eskom a licence to go ahead with its Sere wind farm near Koekenaap in the Western Cape.
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South Africa and the DRC agree on off take agreement for Inga 3
(20/05/2013)
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With South Africa confirmed as a key partner, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has announced October 2015 as the launch date for construction of the first phase of what could eventually be the largest hydroelectric plant in the world.
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UNIDO hands Nigerian hydro centre to energy commission
(16/05/2013)
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The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) has handed over the administration function of UNIDO-Regional Centre for Small Hydropower Development in Africa to the Energy Commission of Nigeria.
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Grant for Nosy Be hybrid renewables investigation
(15/02/2013)
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The Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) has approved a US$1 million grant to finalise pre-investment activities for a hybrid renewable energy project in Nosy Be Island in Madagascar.
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US$17.6 million boost for small hydro in Uganda
(01/02/2013)
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Uganda's rural electrification drive has received a US$17.6 million boost from the Dutch ORIO Infrastructure Fund for feasibility studies leading to the construction of 10 mini hydro power stations around the country.
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UNDP Study Outlines NAMA on Sustainable Charcoal in Uganda
(31/01/2013)
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The UN Development Programme (UNDP) has released a 'Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Action Study on Sustainable Charcoal in Uganda', identifying major opportunities in the charcoal sector to prevent carbon emissions and foster sustainable development in least developed countries.
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KenGen's Kindaruma Unit II handed over
(21/01/2013)
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KenGen's Kindaruma Unit II has been handed over to the company after an upgrade by project contractors Andritz Hydro of Austria and Iran's Farab Company
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AfDB Energy Policy to promote energy access and low-carbon growth
(11/01/2013)
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The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved its new Energy Sector Policy, providing a framework within which to promote access to modern, reliable and affordable access to energy for regional member countries (RMCs), as well as ensure that their energy sectors develop in a socially, economically and environmentally sustainable manner. It is expected that the policy will also aid in addressing climate change and other environmental challenges.
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Zambian Shiwangandu small hydro-power plant inaugurated
(05/12/2012)
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The President of the Republic of Zambia, Michael Sata, today commissioned the Shiwangandu small hydro-power plant (SHP), which will supply a mini-grid that will benefit over 25,000 people. It is the first power plant built in Zambia since the 1970s.
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SinoHydro gets Kariba South tender
(14/11/2012)
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The State Procurement Board of Zimbabwe has finally awarded the tender for Kariba South Power Station extension to SinoHydro.
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AfDB study examines the role of wind energy in Africa's economic growth
(01/11/2012)
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The installation of wind power stations represents 'an original approach' for African countries seeking to ensure sustainable economic growth. This was the message behind a study released on Wednesday afternoon during the African Economic Conference, which is taking place in the Rwandan capital of Kigali.
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IEA report offers roadmap for doubling global hydropower by 2050
(29/10/2012)
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The International Energy Agency (IEA) and Brazil’s Ministry of Mines and Energy have published a report laying out a roadmap for doubling global hydroelectricity production by 2050. According to IEA, the achievement of such hydro production levels could prevent up to three billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel plants.
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Eskom asks for 16% tariff increase
(22/10/2012)
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Power parastatal Eskom has asked the National Energy Regulator of SA (Nersa) for a total 16% tariff increase over the next five years.
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South Africa's first grid tied PV plant unveiled in Ekurhuleni
(12/10/2012)
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The City of Ekurhuleni showed its commitment to promote low carbon technologies when executive mayor, Mondli Gungubele officially unveiled what is claimed to be the first and only solar plant in the country in Wattville, outside Benoni, on Friday.
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Uganda's Bujagali officially inaugurated
(11/10/2012)
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The US$900 million 250 MW Bujagali run of river hydroelectric scheme in Uganda was officially inaugurated on October 10th by the country's president Yoweri Museveni.
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UNU-IAS Releases Policy Report on Biofuels in Africa
(11/10/2012)
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The United Nations University Institute of Advanced Studies (UNU-IAS), in collaboration with the University of Oxford and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) South Africa, has released a policy report analyzing the impact of biofuel production and use on ecosystem services, biodiversity and human well-being in Africa.
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Minister opens SA's first utility-scale solar inverter factory
(21/09/2012)
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International power equipment supplier 3W Power/AEG Power Solutions has officially opened a manufacturing facility, in the Western Cape, which has the capacity to produce 200 MW/year of solar inverters, as well as electrical distribution boxes.
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Malawi Expression of Interest Wind service
(21/09/2012)
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Malawi’s Ministry of Energy and Mining is inviting expressions of interest from eligible consulting firms to undertake wind measurement and two site prefeasibility studies for wind power generation.
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SA Department postpones 3rd Bid of REIPPPP
(13/09/2012)
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The Department of Energy has announced that the 3rd bid submission date for the Renewable Independent Power Producers programme will be postponed to 7 May 2013 due to, amongst others, representations from the market, the need to focus on Window 1 and 2 financial close processes, and to update the RFP accordingly for subsequent windows.
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REEEP is looking for experts
(18/07/2012)
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Ahead of REEEP’s 9th programme cycle which kicks off in late August 2012, REEEP is conducting a call for experts who could assist with tasks related to this funding cycle and beyond.
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IEA, GIZ to support the development of South Africa’s Solar Energy Roadmap
(09/07/2012)
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The Government of South Africa, supported by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the German Development Agency (GIZ), is in the process of developing a national solar energy technology roadmap, which aims to identify the steps the country should take to increase the uptake of solar energy.
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South African Green Hour celebrates a year on radio
(05/07/2012)
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The Green Hour radio program, an initiative of the Southern African Association for Energy Efficiency (SAEE) and Kingfisher FM in Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB), celebrates its first anniversary after producing 44 energy efficiency and sustainability awareness shows.
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ARE launches its Small Wind Campaign
(01/07/2012)
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As a cornerstone of its Small Wind Campaign, the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) has published a position paper 'The potential of small and medium wind energy in developing countries. A guide for energy sector decision-makers'.
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KenGen receives upgraded Kindaruma dam
(24/06/2012)
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KenGen has received the newly installed third unit at its Kindaruma plant from the project contractors, Andritz of Austria who carried out the electrical and mechanical works and Farab Intenational of Iran that implemented the civil works.
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AfDB funding for Itezhi-Tezhi hydro in Zambia
(19/06/2012)
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The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a USD 35-million senior loan and a USD 3 million standby facility to Itezhi-Tezhi Power Corporation (ITPC) and a concessional loan of USD 18 million to the government as Zambia Electricity Supply Company (ZESCO)’s share of the equity to develop the Itezhi-Tezhi hydropower plant project that will provide reliable, low-cost power and sustainable energy to the country.
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AfDB funding for Itezhi-Tezhi hydro in Zambia
(19/06/2012)
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The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a USD 35-million senior loan and a USD 3 million standby facility to Itezhi-Tezhi Power Corporation (ITPC) and a concessional loan of USD 18 million to the government as Zambia Electricity Supply Company (ZESCO)'s share of the equity to develop the Itezhi-Tezhi hydropower plant project that will provide reliable, low-cost power and sustainable energy to the country.
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Eskom, TIA call for ocean-energy innovation bids
(01/06/2012)
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The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) and State-owned power utility Eskom launched an ‘open innovation challenge’, through which they hope to stimulate the development of commercially viable ocean-current-energy technologies.
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ECREEE and Partners Receive Grant for Dry Concentrating Solar Power Project
(15/05/2012)
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Through the framework of the African Union Commission (AUC) Research Grants Open Call for Proposals for 2011, the AUC has awarded the ECOWAS Regional Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE) a three-year grant worth €1 million for a research project entitled “Development of a Cost-effective, Modular and Dry Concentrating Solar Power for Africa: Design and Test of Components.”
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Rock Band launches Campaign for SE4ALL, Solar at Ugandan clinics
(10/05/2012)
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The rock band Linkin Park, through their “Power the World” Initiative, has launched a campaign to bring solar power to health clinics in Uganda and is encouraging its fans to sign a pledge to support the UN Secretary-General’s Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL) Initiative.
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Euros 5 million earmarked for small hydro in West Africa
(08/05/2012)
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The United Nations Industrial Development Organization
(UNIDO) will team with the ECOWAS Regional Centre for Renewable Energy
and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE) and the World Bank to implement a five-year
programme on small scale hydro power for West Africa.
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African Development Bank releases report on Clean Energy in Egypt
(03/05/2012)
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The African Development Bank has released a report titled "Clean Energy Development in Egypt." The report reviews the opportunities and challenges to improving energy efficiency, developing renewable energy resources and promoting the local manufacture of these products in Egypt.
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GVEP support for small hydro in Tanzania
(30/04/2012)
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A key challenge facing developers of small hydro projects in Tanzania is the lack of access to finance. To help counter this, GVEP is implementing a Pre-Investment Technical Support programme in collaboration with the World Bank and Tanzania’s Rural Energy Agency (REA).
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French led consortium wins Moroccan wind farm bid
(26/04/2012)
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A consortium led by EdF Energies Nouvelles, and also comprising Mitsui and Alstom, was selected as the preferred bidder by Morocco’s Office National d’Electricité (ONE) for the 150 MW Taza wind farm.
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South Africa: Study into R20bn Umzimvubu dam, including hydro option
(23/03/2012)
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A detailed feasibility study for the Umzimvubu water project, in the Eastern Cape, was started in January, Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa said in a written response to a Parliamentary question posed by the Democratic Alliance’s Gareth Morgan.
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Atlas to help tap Soth African wind potential
(13/03/2012)
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South Africa has released its first verified numerical wind atlas, which will help identify wind energy development sites in three provinces as the country pushes to increase its use of renewable energy sources.
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Clean Cookstoves Initiative and Report Planned for East Africa
(09/03/2012)
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Supported by the Accenture Development Partnerships (ADP), the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves (GACC), an initiative of the UN Foundation, has partnered with the Global Village Energy Partnership (GVEP) to conduct a structured review of the clean cookstoves and fuels industry in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
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Novatec Solar to enter South African CSP market
(10/02/2012)
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Novatec Solar has joined ABB in entering the South African CSP market. ABB have signed an agreement with FG Emvelo, an independent solar power plant company, to develop high-efficiency concentrating solar power (CSP) plants at Karoshoek Solar Valley in Northern Cape province, South Africa.
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Pre-qualification for 1000 MW Moroccan integrated wind energy project
(01/02/2012)
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Moroccan utility ONE intends to select a list of companies and consortia to which ONE will address the tender for the development, design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of five wind farms with a total capacity of 850 MW. Deadline for this EOI is 2 March 2012.
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GL Garrad Hassan Opens Cape Town Office
(06/01/2012)
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To support the developers and financiers of South Africa's burgeoning wind power industry GL Garrad Hassan opened its first office in the Rainbow Nation, in Cape Town on 1 January 2012.
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Pico-hydro’s potential in Rwanda assessed
(16/12/2011)
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As part of its Energy Small and Medium Enterprises programme (ESMEs),
GVEP has completed a study which looks at the pico and micro-hydropower market in Rwanda
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Rwanda Montain Tea to construct Giciye Hydro-Power
(11/12/2011)
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Rwanda Mountain Tea, a local tea processing company, is set to construct a mini hydropower plant, worth US$12 million that will produce 4 megawatts (MW) of electricity, which will be fed into the national grid.
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Rwandan prison uses biogas
(21/11/2011)
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Rwanda’s Nsinda prison is now running on renewable energy via the waste of nearly 8,000 inmates and cow manure; an initiative that will eventually reach Rwandan homes.
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World Bank Supports Morocco’s bold solar power plans
(17/11/2011)
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The World Bank approved $297 million in loans to Morocco to help finance the Ouarzazate Concentrated Solar Power Plant Project, taking a historic step toward realizing one of the first large-scale plants of this kind in North Africa to exploit the region's vast solar energy resources.
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SA, DRC to sign new ‘Grand Inga’ agreement
(10/11/2011)
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South African President Jacob Zuma and his Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) counterpart Joseph Kabila will preside over the signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) relating to the so-called ‘Grand Inga’ hydropower project.
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SA initiative to grow renewables industry
(03/11/2011)
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South Africa will launch an ambitious project aimed at boosting its "green" economy and reducing the country's carbon footprint during the United Nations Climate Change Conference starting in Durban on 28 November.
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Nile group names firm to study Kagera reservoirs including hydro
(02/11/2011)
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The Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) has named Coyne et Bellier Ingenieurs Conseils/Tractebel Engineering SA to perform feasibility studies of multi-purpose reservoirs, including hydropower, in the Kagera River Basin of Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.
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Wind/hydro hybrid for Morocco
(01/11/2011)
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On 2 November 2011, the governing bodies of the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) approved updates to Morocco’s investment plan under the Clean Technology Fund (CTF) and a project that will finance Morocco’s ambitious Wind Energy Plan through the implementation of wind/hydro hybrid generating systems that will increase capacity by 1,070 MW and the expansion of rural electrification to 79,436 households in 24 of Morocco’s most isolated and vulnerable districts.
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World Bank Supports South Africa’s Renewable Energy Plans
(27/10/2011)
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The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors today approved $250 million in funding for the Eskom Renewables Energy Support Project (ERSP) to help implement the pioneering and innovative Upington concentrating solar power and Sere wind power plants in South Africa.
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Tanzania to rehabilitate two 71-year-old power plants
(18/10/2011)
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The government of Tanzania has moved to rehabilitate the 71-year hydropower plants in the Kilimanjaro and Mbeya regions by inviting international and local companies to bid for the rehabilitation works.
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South Africa goes ahead with RE tender
(31/07/2011)
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The Department of Energy (DoE) has released information about the submission of proposals for the financing, construction, operation and maintenance of renewable energy projects including onshore wind, solar thermal, solar photovoltaic, biomass, biogas, landfill gas and small hydro.
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South African minister Rob Davies representing SARi in Berlin, Germany
(05/07/2011)
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The South African Embassy in Berlin together with Africa-Verein and Siemens held a reception for DTI Minister Rob Davies in Berlin. Minister Davies met wth the representatives from German Businesses in the renewables sector and spoke about South Africa’s long term, ambitious targets for developing renewables.
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SA Government confirms inclusion of price competition in first renewables round
(04/07/2011)
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The South African government has confirmed that price competition will feature in the procurement process for the first round of renewable energy projects, with the 2009 renewable energy feed-in tariffs (Refit) to be use as a “ceiling” price against which potential developers should tender their offers.
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Kenya’s first net metered PV project to be inaugurated
(30/06/2011)
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Construction on Kenya’s first net metered photovoltaic plant has been completed. Described as the third biggest system of its kind in East Africa, the project was the result of a German-Kenyan collaboration.
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SMEC to work on Tanzania’s Ruhudji hydro project
(27/06/2011)
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Australian engineering and development consulting firm SMEC is to provide technical advisory support for the development of the Ruhudji Hydropower Project in Tanzania following the awarded of a contract by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals (MEM).
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Seven additional African nations to join the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves
(16/06/2011)
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On the heels of Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s visit to Africa, seven African nations have joined the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves. The governments of Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Rwanda and Tanzania, together with the Nigerian Alliance for Clean Cookstoves, committed to join the public-private partnership to help save lives around the world.
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Eskom gets $365m renewable energy loan
(06/06/2011)
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The African Development Bank (AfDB) has granted Eskom a $365 million loan for financing Sere, the 100 MW wind project which the parastatal plans in the Western Cape and a planned 100 MW concentrating solar power project in the Northern Cape.
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EOI for Wind Measuring Stations in Lesotho
(27/05/2011)
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UNDP PSO is Calling potential suppliers for Supply, Installation and Training of Lesotho Meterorological Services personnel for Wind Measuring Stations in Lesotho
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AFD line of credit for Kenyan banks
(11/05/2011)
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France’s development bank agreed to provide a 30 million-euro ($43 million) line of credit to two Kenyan banks for lending to businesses that want to invest in renewable energy projects.
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IDG may finance Congo hydro-electric dam
(10/05/2011)
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South Africa's Industrial Development Group (IDG) has announced that it is studying the possibility of financing for a 1,200MW hydro-electric dam that it is considering constructing in Congo Republic.
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Zarubezhstroy Corporation to invest in Tanzania hydropower
(21/04/2011)
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According to recent reports, a Russian utilities company, Zarubezhstroy Corporation (ZARS), is currently planning to invest in a five year plan to construct what they are expecting to become the largest independent Tanzania hydropower plant to date.
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SNV Ethiopia signs carbon credit agreement for biogas digesters
(14/04/2011)
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On 14th April 2011, SNV in Ethiopia signed a three year agreement of Euro 1,275,000 with the Oromia Regional Bureau of Water, Mineral Energy/ Regional Biogas Coordination Office and the Oromia Credit and Saving Share Company, for credit financing of the biogas households in the National Biogas Programme.
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AfDB Supports Bioenergy Development in Sierra Leone
(11/04/2011)
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The African Development Bank is providing a €25 million loan ($36 million) to support a bionergy project in Sierra Leone, which also aims to improve livelihood opportunities and boost food security in the project area.
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First grid-connected solar power plant in Mali
(12/02/2011)
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The 216 kWp solar power plant was inaugurated on Febraury 12, 2011. Attendees were Amadou Toumani Toure, President of Mali, the Minister of Energy, the executive board of the national energy supplier (EDM) and the members of the local council of Ouéléssébougou.
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TENDER Preparation of the SADC Renewable Energy Strategy and Action Plan
(04/02/2011)
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The Southern African Development Community (SADC) in close cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland (MFA) intends to explore options to increase the use of renewable energy in the SADC Region. One of the concrete outputs of this cooperation will be a Renewable Energy Strategy and Action Plan (RESAP) for the SADC Region.
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Sea wave plant for Kenya
(01/02/2011)
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Israeli firm SDE Energy says it has been given Kenyan government approval to build a 100MW power plant to tap waves on the East African country’s coastline.
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USD 23 Million Grant to Guinea access to electricity project
(27/01/2011)
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The Board of Directors of the African Development Fund (ADF), the concessional window of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, approved on 21 January 2011, a USD 23-million grant to finance a rural electrification project in Guinea. The project will enable 60,000 rural people in 31 communities to access electric power along the national interconnected grid.
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Namibia to harness wind power
(20/01/2011)
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Development of the country’s first-ever wind power generation plant, with a capacity to generate 44 megawatts of electricity, has started with a detailed wind assessment at Diaz Point in Lüderitz.
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Low-Income Communities in Africa outline energy needs for World Bank
(19/01/2011)
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Almost 500 people in 10 towns and villages across Liberia, Madagascar and Togo participated in World Bank-sponsored workshops from May to September 2010 aimed at gathering input from low-income communities about how best the Bank can help meet their energy needs.
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South Africa: Energy centre to boost growth in Qunu
(14/01/2011)
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The South African Government and fuel company Sasol launched the R8 million Integrated Energy Centre (IEC) at former President Nelson Mandela's birth place earlier today. The centre will provide products such as aluminum paraffin, diesel, petrol, gas burner stoves as well as renewable energy solar system.
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Ugandan hydro project wins clean energy award
(01/01/2011)
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The 8 MW Kakaka project in western Uganda is one of two clean energy projects selected as winners of the Climate Technology Initiative's (CTI) Private Financing Advisory Network's (PFAN) Clean Energy Financing Award 2010.
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AfDB and EIB Finalise Financing Agreement for Cape Verde Wind Farm
(14/12/2010)
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The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), on Tuesday, 14 December 2010, closed the financing agreement to provide € 45 million to design, construct and operate onshore wind farms on four islands in the Cape Verde archipelago.
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Expression of Interest for Manica (Mozambique) bioenergy project
(22/11/2010)
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A newly established Mozambican agroindustrial company has issued a request for expressions of interest (EoI) from consulting engineering companies to carry out a study into a possible $330-million bioenergy and food project in the Southern African country's Manica province.
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South Africa signs $435m solar deal with Yingli
(17/11/2010)
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South Africa has signed a deal with Chinese company Yingli Solar to build a $435 million manufacturing plant with a local partner, a senior government official said on Wednesday.
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Tongaat may sell power to Eskom
(16/11/2010)
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Internationally-known sugar company Tongaat Hulett, which has considerable expertise in bio-fuel production and electricity co-generation, faces the prospect of multi-billion-rand earnings by selling electricity to Eskom.
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Martifer finishes 5 MW park in Cape Verde
(02/11/2010)
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Martifer Solar and the Ministry of Economy, Growth and Competitiveness of Cape Verde (MECC) has inaugurated today the second of two solar parks contracted in January.
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NuPlanet to build 5-MW hydropower plant in Zimbabwe
(01/11/2010)
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South African hydropower plant developer, owner and operator NuPlanet has been granted a generation license to build a 5-MW greenfield hydropower plant at the Mutirikwi dam, Zimbabwe’s largest reservoir.
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DBSA provides $105m for Zambia hydropower expansion
(26/10/2010)
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The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) has provided the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (Zesco) with a $105-million loan facility to co-finance the expansion of its Kariba North Bank hydropower station.
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Climate-neutral office building for UNEP Nairobi
(21/10/2010)
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The Cologne-based company of Energiebau Solarstromsysteme GmbH has received a commission to construct a highperformance photovoltaic system on the roof of the new UNEP office building in Nairobi, Kenya.
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First wind farm in Nigeria
(20/10/2010)
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The project company Terrawatt Planungsgesellschaft mbH from Germany is building the first wind farm in Nigeria. The 10 MW farm will help improve the country's electricity supply.
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South Africa to support rural electrification in Angola
(14/10/2010)
|
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South Africa will support a project for the electrification and improvement of electric power network in rural areas in Angola, the visiting South African Energy Minister, Ms Dipuo Peters, revealed in Luanda this past Monday
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Suzlon to open office in South Africa
(05/10/2010)
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Suzlon Energy Limited, the third leading wind turbine manufacturer in the
world, announced today it was appointing Silas Zimu as country CEO and setting up an office in South Africa.
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Sudan: Kenana does deal with Dedini
(30/09/2010)
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In a deal that will help the African nation of Sudan diversify its energy portfolio, Kenana Sugar Company has signed two deals with Brazil-based Dedini.
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Borodino of Russia to construct Rumakali (Tanzania)
(27/09/2010)
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The government of Tanzania has signed a deal with Russia-based Borodino for the construction of the $700 million Rumakali hydropower plant in Tanzania's Iringa region, news agencies reported.
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South African game park converts to concentrated PV
(01/09/2010)
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Paving the way for solar power projects in South Africa, Concentrix Solar, a leading supplier of Concentrator Photovoltaic (CPV) systems announced the inauguration of its first power facility in South Africa at the Aquila Private Game Reserve in Touwsrivier on September 1, 2010.
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Wind Prospect sets up in South Africa
(18/08/2010)
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Wind energy company Wind Prospect intends to open an office in South Africa, hoping to become the number one service provider to the African wind market by 2012.
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Rwandan prison runs on biogas
(09/07/2010)
|
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In Rwanda a biogas plant has been constructed for Nsinda Central Prison in Rwamagana District, Eastern Province.
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South Africa: New energy-efficiency hub initiated
(07/07/2010)
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A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Wednesday opening the way for the establishment of the so-called South African Regional Energy Efficiency Centre (SAREEC), which is expected to begin operations within 24 months.
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Ghana: Vepower does deal with Jatropha Africa
(02/07/2010)
|
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Dedicated to the production of sustainable energy, UK-based Vepower has entered into an exclusivity agreement with biofuel feedstock company Jatropha Africa, with the goal of financing the company’s 50,000 hectare plantation in Ghana, West Africa.
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Yingli Green to provide solar for soccer training centres
(24/06/2010)
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Yingli Green Energy announced that it will provide its expertise in solar energy to power "20 Centers for 2010", the official campaign of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa. This campaign is part of the Football for Hope movement, which is using the power of the game for positive social change.
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Consultancy service for study on Monontša Pumped Storage scheme in Lesotho
(23/06/2010)
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The Government of Lesotho has received a loan and a grant from the African Development Fund towards the cost of LESOTHO ELECTRICITY SUPPLY PROJECT and intends to apply part of the proceeds of the loan to cover eligible payments under the contract for “The Pre-Feasibility study of Monontša Pumped Storage Scheme.
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Morocco solar plant draws big investor interest
(17/06/2010)
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Investor interest in phase one of Morocco's $9-billion solar power scheme has exceeded expectations with about 200 firms submitting expressions of interest, the head of Morocco's solar power agency said.
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Landmark Conference Aims to Transform Low Cost Off-grid Lighting Sector
(18/05/2010)
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IFC and the World Bank today began hosting the region’s Lighting Africa conference in Nairobi, Kenya as part of an effort to bridge the energy gap in Sub-Saharan Africa through off-grid lighting solutions. Lighting Africa’s objective is to transform the lives of 2.5 million people by 2012 by developing a commercially viable platform that can enable the development of low-cost off-grid lighting. It aims to reach 250 million people by 2030.
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300,000 hectares of jatropha for Namibia
(06/05/2010)
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LL Biofuels Namibia is set to produce its own biodiesel after signing an agreement that will see the cultivation of jatropha on 300,000 hectares of land located in the north-eastern Caprivi Region, Namibia.
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Seawater-based biofuels project in Egypt
(21/04/2010)
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Houston-based energy project development player Energy Allied International and The Seawater Foundation and Global Seawater have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly develop the world’s first commercial-scale seawater-based biofuels project in Egypt.
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Renewable energy adviser sought for Rwanda
(09/04/2010)
|
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The government of Rwanda invites expressions of interest from consultants to serve as resident adviser to a sustainable energy development project with several components. Deadline for applications is April 22.
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Call for proposals Energy and Environment Partnership Programme
(08/04/2010)
|
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The Energy and Environment Partnership Programme with Southern and East Africa (EEP-S&EA), with a budget of €10-million, has made its first call for proposals from companies, research institutions and other public and private sector institutions, seeking financial assistance for renewable energy projects. Submission deadline is April 14, 2010.
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Zambian Kariba North upgrade project faces delay
(01/04/2010)
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The commissioning of the upgraded fourth turbine at the Kariba North power station, in Zambia, faces a delay of at least a year, the country’s electricity utility said this week.
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Mozambique utility awards grid study for linking new hydro projects
(29/03/2010)
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Mozambique utility Electricidade de Mocambique (EDM) awarded Vattenfall Power Consultant and Norconsult AS a contract for the study of a transmission backbone system to deliver power from proposed new hydro and thermal power plants to southern Mozambique.
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EU awards solar energy in Africa
(25/03/2010)
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The Dutch Rural Energy Foundation received the prestigious EU Sustainable Energy Award 2010 from EU Energy Commissioner Gunther Oettinger.
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Angola approves new biofuels law
(24/03/2010)
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Angola's parliament on Wednesday approved a new law to regulate the production of biofuels, opening the way for multi-billion dollar investments in the sector.
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Call for Proposals: Africa Forum for Clean Energy Financing
(18/03/2010)
|
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The CTI PFAN Africa Forum for Clean Energy Financing (AFRICEF), seeks to nurture individuals, project teams and consortia, start-up and existing companies with environmentally beneficial business proposals with the aim of making them happen.
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Sweden to help South Africa with clean energy
(18/03/2010)
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The Swedish government has promised to help South Africa develop more renewable energy sources as the two countries seek ways to to fight the devastating effects of climate change.
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Kayema installs solar water heating pannels on Sandton Hotel
(15/03/2010)
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Israeli Ambassador to South Africa Dov Segev-Steinberg and Public Enterprises Deputy Minister Enoch Godongwana on Monday inaugurated the 117 flat panel collector solar water heating installation above the rooftop of the Hotel Da Vinci, in Sandton.
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South African IDC takes stake in Kenya wind project
(10/03/2010)
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Kenya's Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) said on Wednesday it will offload a 70% stake in its wind energy project to South Africa's Industrial Development Corporation and London-based energy firm Aldwych International.
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Nigeria to build biorefinery
(03/03/2010)
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A $22.3 million (€16.3 million) dual-purpose biorefinery will be constructed in Ipao Ekiti, Nigeria. There are also other biofuels projects located in Ilemeso and Iyemero in Oye and Ikole local government areas respectively.
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Kenya: Ormat to increase capacity of Olkaria III Geothermal Plant
(17/02/2010)
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Ormat Technologies this week said that its project subsidiary has signed a letter of intent with the off-taker, Kenya Power & Lighting Co. Ltd (KPLC) for further expansion of its Olkaria III power plant by up to 52 MW (from 48 MW to up to 100 MW) within the framework of the existing power purchase agreement (PPA).
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PPA signed for Kenyan Turkana wind farm
(29/01/2010)
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Construction on a $750-million wind power project in Kenya could begin soon, following the signing of a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) between the developer of the project, Lake Turkana Wind Power Consortium (LTWP), and Kenya Power & Lighting Company (KPLC).
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Morocco hopes to shine in mega solar project
(20/01/2010)
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Morocco has launched what it claims is the biggest solar-thermal energy project in a single country, aiming to produce nearly 40 per cent of its electricity needs — 2,000 megawatts (MW) — by 2020.
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Ethiopia inaugurates Gilgel Gibe II
(14/01/2010)
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Ethiopia’s 420MW Gilgel Gibe II hydro power project was officially inaugurated yesterday in a ceremony attended by foreign and Ethiopian government officials, media and business leaders.
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African energy utilities workshop held in Johannesburg
(30/11/2009)
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Earlier this month, Standard Bank -- one of the leading financiers of power projects in Africa and a member of the ‘Private Investors for Africa’ coalition that promotes investment in Africa – teamed up with the World Bank to organize a unique brainstorming workshop that brought together senior managers from power utilities across Africa.
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AfDB loan for ESKOM for coal, wind and solar
(26/11/2009)
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The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved €1.86 billion (UA 1.70 billion) loan for South Africa’s energy utility company, Eskom Holdings Limited, to finance a power project that will significantly boost the energy capacity of South Africa and the southern African region.
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Morocco unveils $9 bln solar power scheme
(03/11/2009)
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Morocco announced on Monday a solar energy project worth $9 billion which officials said will account for 38 percent of the North African country's installed power generation by 2020.
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Job opening for Energy Specialist at local World Bank office in Mozambique
(30/10/2009)
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The World Bank AFTEG group intends to recruit an Energy Specialist for a position based in Maputo, Mozambique. The new position reflects the growing energy work program in AFCS2 countries (in particular Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe and Malawi) and other Southern African countries. Closing date is the 13th of November 2009.
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Stakeholders come together to boost Renewable Energy in Africa
(10/10/2009)
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Representatives from various African countries today in Addis Ababa established the African Renewable Energy Alliance (AREA). In this Alliance, utilities, industry, policy-makers and the civil society will work together to boost the take-up of sustainable electrification and thermal power.
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Emami to build biofuel factory in Ethiopia
(14/08/2009)
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Indian biofuels specialist Emami Biotech is to invest $80 million (€56 million) in Ethiopian biofuel production. The cost includes the purchase of 12,000 acres of land for a feedstock plantation.
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World Bank Assists in Improving Nigeria’s Power and Gas Sectors
(16/06/2009)
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The Board of the World Bank today approved US$600 million of assistance to the Power and Gas sectors in Nigeria, comprising US$200 million in IDA Credits to assist in network investments and technical assistance to improve electricity supply and a further US$400 million in Partial Risk Guarantees (PRGs) in support of domestic gas market development.
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Sudan opens ethanol plant
(12/06/2009)
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The President of Sudan, Omar al-Beshir, has opened a new 200 million-litre ethanol from sugarcane plant in the White Nile State.
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AfDB provides equity investment of ZAR 100 M for the Evolution One Fund
(29/05/2009)
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The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) approved a ZAR 100 Million equity investment in the Evolution One Fund, the first specialized private equity fund focused on the acceleration and deployment of clean energy and sustainable technologies across southern Africa to mitigate the effects of climate change on the Continent.
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Kenya wind power firm seeks contractor tenders
(20/04/2009)
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A firm putting up a wind farm in north western Kenya said it was seeking construction tenders for a 428-km power line and four substations to connect the renewable power to the national grid.
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Uganda: Invitation for bids for construction of Suam micro-hydro power scheme
(06/04/2009)
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Within the context of bilateral cooperation between the Governments of Uganda and Germany, GTZ supports the sustainable development of the Ugandan energy sector. As part of this support, GTZ is promoting the construction of a micro hydropower scheme at Suam Village, Bukwo District in Eastern Uganda. The scheme shall include an electricity minigrid to serve small and medium enterprises, Government Institutions, households, etc.
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South African firm plans biodiesel plant
(31/03/2009)
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South African biodiesel production company First In Spec BioDiesel is planning to build a R250-million (€20 million) biodiesel plant that would convert waste vegetable oil into biodiesel.
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Plans for Concentrated Solar Power Heat Up in Tunisia
(26/02/2009)
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Generating solar power in North Africa is a hot topic these days, and will certainly stay in the news, thanks to the Mediterranean Solar Plan that was presented in 2008 as part of the Union for the Mediterranean.
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New report by WWF on renewables in South Africa
(25/02/2009)
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A week ahead of South Africa's second National Climate Change Summit (to be held from 3 - 6 March at Gallagher Estate), environmental organization WWF is calling on policy-makers to "get out of the starting blocks" in the global rush for renewable energy.
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Craton Equity funds Mozambiquan biofuels
(23/02/2009)
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Craton Equity Partners, a Southern California, US-based clean technology fund, has made a commitment of $10 million (€7.9 million) to Principle Energy Limited (PEL), a sustainable biofuel development company with projects that target sub-Saharan Africa.
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Ericsson, Orange Deploy Solar Base-Stations in Africa
(19/02/2009)
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Ericsson and Orange Guinea Conakry are deploying 100 mobile phone base stations in the African country of Guinea that use power from solar panels and diesel batteries, the companies said on Thursday.
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World Bank approves grant to Central African Republic
(18/02/2009)
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The World Bank has approved a grant of US$8M to support the Government of the Central African Republic's (CAR) plans to rehabilitate the country’s power infrastructure – including hydro power facilities – while balancing supply and demand in the capital Bangui, and helping the country’s power utility to improve its financial and operational sustainability.
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Lesotho: ADB approves US$ 16 Million for Electricity Supply Project
(04/02/2009)
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Efforts by the Lesotho government to improve electricity supply in the country received support from the Board of Directors of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group which approved a combined loan and a grant of US$ 16.4 million, to finance the country’s Electricity Supply Project.
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South Africa and Denmark to collaborate on wind energy
(24/01/2009)
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Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica and Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Moller on Friday signed a Declaration of Intent with a view to using wind energy as a renewable energy source in the country.
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Nuts to boost Tanzania biofuels
(19/01/2009)
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A biodiesel project in Tanzania is looking at manufacturing biofuel using the oil from the nuts of the Croton tree.
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India to build hydroplants in Cameroon
(14/01/2009)
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Indian engineering firm Angelique International will build two hydro power plants in Cameroon as part of a 125 billion CFA francs ($251.5 million) aid deal.
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Namibia: tender open for 4th turbine at Ruacana
(12/01/2009)
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Namibia's national power utility, the Namibia Power Corporation (NamPower), has issued a tender for the appointment of a contractor to undertake the civil works portion of a project to add a fourth turbine-generator unit to its Ruacana hydropower plant, on the country's northwest boundary with Angola.
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Kenya: Israelis to install 30 windmills
(12/01/2009)
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Israeli desert experts are set to install 30 windmills in Nyatike Constituency to help pump water from Lake Victoria to remote parts of the area.
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1GW PV for Jordan
(12/12/2008)
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A joint venture has launched a multi-year project to construct a 1 GW photovoltaic (PV) power plant in Jordan, including an integrated 200 MW thin-film PV module factory.
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Eskom, AfDB sign $500m loan to help fund expansion
(10/11/2008)
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State-owned electricity producer Eskom on Monday signed a $500-million, 20-year loan with the African Development Bank (AfDB), as part of its capital raising plans to fund its R343-billion investment programme.
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World Bank, Zambia agree $75,5m power deal
(22/10/2008)
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World Bank agreed on Tuesday to a $75,5-million facility with Zambia to boost electricity generation and said the mineral-rich country required up to $2-billion to meet growing power demand.
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Vergnet Signs 120-MW Wind Contract in Ethiopia
(16/10/2008)
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The Vergnet group has signed a major contract with the Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation (EEPCo). The contract, involving the sale and installation of 120 of the company's 1-megawatt (MW) GEV HP wind turbines over a period of three years.
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Morocco Backs Asola's African Plans
(15/10/2008)
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Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide Inc. announced that it's German solar photovoltaic (PV) partner Asola has signed an exclusive agreement to establish a joint venture in Morocco.
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2.2 billion euro for renewable energy in Morocco
(08/10/2008)
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Morocco plans to invest some 2.2 billion euro in renewable energies over the next five years. The Moroccan National Electricity Office, ONE, clearly shows its intention to be one of the global players operating in the development of renewable energy and thereby increase its energy production.
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New fund to invest in clean technologies
(03/10/2008)
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The Evolution One Fund, a 10-year private equity fund that focuses on investments in clean technology (cleantech) in the southern African region, has raised R400-million from four core international investors to date, and is expected to grow to R1-billion by mid-2009.
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Tunisia to build 120 MW wind farm
(19/09/2008)
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Spanish wind turbine generator manufacturer Gamesa would supply 91 wind turbine generators, worth some €200-million, to Tunisia’s Société Tunisienne de L'Electricité et du Gaz (Steg), for what would become the North African country’s largest wind power facility.
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Namibia: castor beans for biofuels
(11/09/2008)
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Israel's Evogene, Ormat Industries and the Leviev Group of Companies said on Wednesday they will set up a joint venture to grow castor beans in Namibia for the production of biodiesel.
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Nigeria plans ethanol project
(10/09/2008)
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Nigeria is planning to launch the first fuel ethanol project in Africa, worth N14.4billion (€ 86.7 million) in Ekiti State.
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Africa-EU energy partnership to promote Africa electrification
(09/09/2008)
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A joint statement stresses the urgent need to promote Africa electrification and agreed to launch as soon as possible the process for the elaboration of an Electricity Master-Plan for Africa including, for instance, renewable energy cooperation.
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South African government helps poor access energy
(17/08/2008)
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South Africa's Minister of Mineral and Energy, Buyelwa Sonjica, at the official opening of energy cluster centre at Makgobistad says energy cluster centres where poor communities can now access gas, petrol, diesel and paraffin are of great importance.
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Kenyan courts consider terminating biofuel plans
(05/08/2008)
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The Kenyan courts are considering halting the first stage of a US$370 million biofuel project that aims to replace up to 20,000 hectares of coastal grassland with irrigated fields of sugarcane.
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Namibia backing 400 MW solar tower-agri concept
(24/07/2008)
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A new proposal involving the construction of a R1-billion solar tower that will be able to generate 400 MW of electricity is being backed by the Namibian government, which is prepared to foot the bill for half of the prefeasibility study costs, says intellectual property company Hahn & Hahn MD Alan Dunlop.
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2007 Sustainable energy investment in Africa fivefold of 2006
(17/07/2008)
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Although Africa continues to lag other regions in terms of sustainable energy investment, asset finance was up in 2007 to $1.3 billion (five times as much as in 2006), reversing a gradual decline since 2004 and bearing witness to increasing installed renewable capacity.
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Tanzanian sustainable biofuel production gets support
(03/07/2008)
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The Shell Foundation and DOEN Foundation are supporting Diligent Energy Systems, a Dutch company from Eindhoven that has expansion plans for sustainable biofuel production from the tropical plant Jatropha in Tanzania.
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Anger at Kenya biofuel approval
(03/07/2008)
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A government decision to allow a biofuels project to go ahead in Kenya has caused a furore with Kenyan environmentalists.
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Zambia: Omnia invests R29m in jatropha research
(18/06/2008)
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Noting the importance of biofuels in the changing agricultural landscape, the Omnia group has made an investment of some R29-million into research on jatropha agronomics in Zambia.
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Mauritius: One third of electricity from sugar by 2015
(18/06/2008)
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About a third of Mauritius' electricity will come from sugar waste by 2015, making it by far the largest component of an ambitious national target for renewable energy, a senior sugar official said on Wednesday.
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South Africa: German school in Johannesburg on solar power
(08/06/2008)
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Children at the German International School in Johannesburg have been given a unique opportunity to learn first-hand about how solar power works. A solar energy system has been installed on the school's roof as part of a programme by the German Energy Agency (dena).
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South Africa: 80-MW wind farm in Western Cape
(29/05/2008)
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The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, together with the Saldanha Municipality, Seeland Development Trust, Oxfam UK and Genesis Eco-Energy, embarked on a process to develop an 80 MW wind farm on Thursday, with signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) governing the development of the project.
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Swedish group to produce African ethanol
(09/05/2008)
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Sweden-based ethanol producer SEKAB Group is planning and preparing for the production of ethanol in Tanzania and Mozambique. With the tropical climate and its unused areas with good access to water, Africa harbours excellent national conditions for growing biomass for biofuels.
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World Bank and IFC Reward 16 Companies for Innovative Lighting Projects for Africa
(09/05/2008)
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The World Bank Group has selected 16 companies and organizations as winners of the Development Marketplace competition for their innovative products or services tailored to Sub-Saharan Africa’s off-grid lighting market. The winners will receive up to $200,000 to implement projects that offer affordable, clean, and safe off-grid lighting and that improve access to lighting for people living without electricity across the region.
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Toyota's South African plant to go solar
(07/05/2008)
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Toyota has become the latest company to answer power utility Eskom's call for companies to reduce electricity consumption and to find alternative energy sources, by installing over 200 solar panels at its Prospecton plant in Durban.
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Tanzania presents Power Sector Master Plan at Financing Options Workshops
(06/05/2008)
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In collaboration with the World Bank , the Tanzanian government last week held a two-day workshop in Dar-es-Salaam on Public Private Partnership (PPP) Awareness in the Energy Sector at which the Canadian consulting firm, SNC-Lavalin International Inc., presented a 25-year Power Sector Master Plan (PSMP) for Tanzania (2006-2031) which was financed by the African Development Bank.
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South Africa: No investors for Eskom solar plant
(25/04/2008)
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Eskom is still struggling to secure funding for its 100 megawatt solar power demonstration plant, but a new proposal will be presented to the utility's board in the next few weeks to overcome this.
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Uganda: Lake levels up but power cuts stay
(24/04/2008)
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The Lake Victoria water levels have risen but the amount of electricity produced at the Jinja-based hydropower complex will reduce further due to restricted water outflow.
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Tanzania: 50 MW commercial wind farm in Singida region
(21/04/2008)
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A group of villagers gather at the local bicycle repair shop at Njiapanda, a dusty roadside hamlet on the rift valley in Singida region in central Tanzania, to marvel at magazine pictures of massive electricity-generating wind turbines.
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South Africa: more power from Cahora Bassa
(09/04/2008)
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Africa’s biggest power utility, Eskom, on Wednesday confirmed that it could now import up to 1 500 MW from Mozambique’s Cahora Bassa hydroelectric power station, after it signed a five-year agreement for an additional 250 MW.
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Lesotho: energy efficient lighting bulb factory planned by Philips
(31/03/2008)
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Philips Electronics NV has confirmed it will build a new plant in Lesotho. The plant will be capable of producing 15 million compact fluorescent lamps annually and will be jointly owned by the government of South Africa, Karebo Systems Ltd and Philips.
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South Africa: new windfarm for East London
(27/03/2008)
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AltX-listed diversified industrial firm Safic, which is planning to change its name to Accentuate by April, is actively pursuing its wind-power generation ambitions, and could soon build a small pilot plant in East London.
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South Africa: new 288-million litres/yr biodiesel plant for Coega
(15/03/2008)
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Australian-owned firm Rainbow Nation Renewable Fuels (RNRF) was in the "final stages" of applying for a licence from government to produce 288-million litres a year of biodiesel from a R1,5-billion plant it was building at Coega in the Eastern Cape, it said this week.
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Liberia studies feasibility of reviving sole hydropower plant
(07/03/2008)
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The Liberian government has contracted US-based engineering company Stanley Consultants to carry out studies on the feasibility of resuscitating the country’s only hydropower plant, which was damaged during the West African country’s bloody civil war.
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Uganda: Alstom wins Bujagali turbine order
(22/02/2008)
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A contract to supply five generating units and other equipment to the 250MW Bujagali hydropower plant being developed in Uganda has been awarded to Alstom Projects India (API).
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Madagascar targets 76 percent hydropower by 2012
(16/02/2008)
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Madagascar aims to produce 76 percent of its electricity from hydroenergy by 2012, plugging a major gap in its existing capacity, the president of the Indian Ocean island country said on Friday.
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South Africa: energy saving targets exceeded
(13/02/2008)
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South Africans are currently saving more than the 10% reduction target in electricity consumption set by the government, and emergency measures will continue over the next six months to ensure a further drop in demand, says Public Enterprises Minister Alec Erwin.
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Uganda: EIB lends USD 136 million for Bujagali
(07/01/2008)
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The European Investment Bank (EIB in London signed the documentation for a loan of the equivalent of EUR 92 million loan to be extended to Bujagali Energy Limited. (BEL), a private company established in Uganda to build, own and operate a 250 MW hydro-electric project on the upper Nile at Bujagali.
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South Africa: R80bn methane project
(18/12/2007)
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NT Energy UK, empowerment partner Bataung Oil and South Africa's state-owned Central Energy Fund are to begin exploration for coalbed methane reserves as part of a project to develop sustainable sources of alternative energy for the country.
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Zambia: prize for engineer Zambezi Rapids
(06/12/2007)
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Arup engineer Daniel Rea has been highly commended in the Young Consultant of the Year category of the British Expertise International Awards for his work on the Zambezi Rapids micro-hydro scheme.
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South Africa: New Eskom dam power project approved
(16/11/2007)
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State power utility Eskom has received all the necessary approvals, including an environmental record of decision, to proceed with a second multibillion-rand pumped-storage scheme, dubbed Project Lima.
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Uganda: Biofuel plant planned
(22/10/2007)
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A local investor is planning to set up a plant which will use foodstuff like maize, cassava and sugarcane to manufacture oil and gel for lighting and cooking respectively. The investor, who currently imports the biofuels (synthetic oil and gel) from their South African-based parent company Liquifier Pty Limited, hopes to set up the plant in east and western Uganda, by the end of June next year.
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Malawi endorses ethanol-fuelled cars
(17/10/2007)
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The Malawi government is promoting imported ethanol-fuelled cars to wean the country off its fossil fuel dependency and better harness the country's ethanol industry.
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South Africa: Solahart colours its way into Featherbrooke Estate
(11/10/2007)
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Solahart achieved a South African solar water heating first when the company recently introduced coloured tanks. The new coloured tanks earned Solahart the nod from the Featherbrooke Estate aesthetics committee, making it the first solar water heater producer to be approved for this prestigious development.
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NEPAD Infrastructure mission in Central Africa
(05/10/2007)
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A joint mission of the African Development Bank NEPAD Division and the NEPAD Secretariat Infrastructure Unit has visited Libreville and Brazzaville at the invitation of the Central African Economic Community (ECCAS), for talks with ECCAS, the Central African Development Bank, the Central African Power Pool and the Central African Economic and Monetary Community.
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South Africa: DME biofuel won't burn food prices
(03/10/2007)
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South Africa could commit itself to biofuel production, confident that increased demand for maize will not burden food prices, Sandile Tyatya, chief director for clean energy at the department of minerals and energy (DME), said yesterday.
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South Africa: Solahart awarded SABS mark
(01/10/2007)
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Solahart is the first South African Solar Water Heating company to be awarded the SABS mark. The award follows the safety and performance test by SABS, as well as an Audit of Solahart's procedures and an inspection by the SABS of the factory in Australia.
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Germany Looks to North Africa's Untapped Solar Thermal Potential
(27/09/2007)
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A study by the German Aerospace Center estimated that harnessing the sun's energy falling on just 6,000 square kilometers of desert in North Africa would supply energy equivalent to the entire oil production of the Middle East of 9 billion barrels a year.
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World Bank & IFC launch "Lighting Africa" initiative
(05/09/2007)
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The World Bank Group today launches an initiative to provide modern lighting to the 250 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa who have no access to electricity. Jointly managed by the World Bank and IFC, Lighting Africa aims to develop market conditions for the supply and distribution of new, nonfossil fuel lighting products, such as fluorescent light bulbs and light emitting diodes, in rural and urban areas of the region that are not connected to the electricity grid.
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South Africa: Cargill to generate power from Humphries pig farm waste
(08/08/2007)
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Cargill is to build an anaerobic digester on a pig farm in South Africa, the first time such technology will be used in the country. The digester, which will convert pig effluent into power, is to be built at Humphries Boerdery Pty Ltd, a family-run pig farm business, situated north of Johannesburg.
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South Africa: US$ 500 million AfDB loan for ESKOM
(07/08/2007)
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South Africa’s national electricity company, Eskom Holdings Limited, will benefit from the biggest loan ever granted by the Private Sector window of the African Development Bank (AfDB). The US$ 500 million program loan approved by the AfDB Board of Directors will help enhance the capacity of the South African utility through investment in generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure.
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Namibia: Nampower to hand out free CFLs
(06/08/2007)
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Namibians will soon receive free CFLs, to be distributed to urban households at the end of this month, in a nationwide campaign to save electricity.
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Mozambique: Energem acquires jatropha biodiesel project
(02/08/2007)
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Canadian company Energem Resources has acquired a 70% controlling interest in a jatropha based biodiesel venture in Mozambique. The equity deal is in return for a commitment from Energem to fund the further development of the project for an amount of up to US$5.5 million.
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DRC: Banro eyes hydro plant for gold mine
(31/07/2007)
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A hydro power plant has been highlighted as a key power option in preliminary studies for a gold mine being planned in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by Canada-based firm Banro Corporation.
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Uganda: Total stations to use solar power
(30/07/2007)
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TOTAL has launched a solar power system for its stations, becoming the first oil company in Uganda to do so. The Vice-President, Prof. Gilbert Bukenya lauded Total and Uganda Batteries for initiating solar power use for petrol stations, saying it is vital during loadshedding hours.
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Burkina Faso: World Bank approves Energy Access Project
(28/07/2007)
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On July 26, 2007 the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors approved the $38.8 million Energy Access project for Burkina Faso. The goal of the Energy Access project is to increase access to, and improve Burkina Faso's electricity services.
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Mozambique to look into large scale bio fuels
(13/07/2007)
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Mozambique is considering investing in a massive bio-fuels programme to cut oil imports and supply its growing manufacturing and tourism sectors with low-cost energy, one of its ministers said on Friday.
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Alliance to fight energy poverty
(15/06/2007)
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The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) has joined the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Energy Poverty Action, in initiative aimed at increasing basic electricity supply to African citizens.
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South Africa: Sustain 2007 goes green
(13/06/2007)
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Focusing on energy, earth and air, and incorporating Afriwater, Sustain 2007 takes place from 15-17 August at the Sandton Convention Centre.
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Mozambique to develop Jatropha for biofuels
(31/05/2007)
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Mozambique could be about to see the beginning of large-scale Jatropha production, following the foundation of ESV Bio-Africa, a new company focusing on the development of Jatropha plantations for biofuels.
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South Africa: DME to unveil energy master plan in June
(30/05/2007)
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The Department of Minerals and Energy (DME) will present a new energy master plan, covering a detailed energy infrastructure plan until 2011, next month, Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica said on May 30.
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South Africa: R130m wood waste station for Eden
(30/05/2007)
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A R130 million venture to burn wood waste to generate electricity will generate 8 megawatts for the Eden district municipality, which includes Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, from June next year.
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DRC: World Bank approves Development of Regional and Domestic Power Markets
(29/05/2007)
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The World Bank Board of Executive Directors today approved a grant of US$296.7 million to increase the availability and reliability of low cost and environmentally-friendly electric energy in DRC and elsewhere in southern and central Africa thanks to the rehabilitation of the Inga 1 and 2 power plants in DR Congo, the construction of a second transmission line to the capital Kinshasa and the rehabilitation and extension of the distribution network in Kinshasa.
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Namibia: Namibian telco deploys ‘green' site
(18/05/2007)
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Global technology provider Motorola, in conjunction with telecoms operator MTC Namibia, has recently announced the deployment of a wind and solar power system to operate MTC Namibia's GSM cell site, at Dordabis village, in the Khomas region of Namibia.
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Solahart Southern Africa Turns 25
(14/05/2007)
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Solahart Southern Africa celebrated its 25th year as Solahart distributor for Southern Africa at its second national conference held in Johannesburg.
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South Africa: Endesa to buy GHG from four landfill
(09/05/2007)
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Endesa and Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) have signed an agreement at the Carbon Expo in Cologne under which Endesa will buy 100 percent of the Certified Emissions Reductions from a portfolio of landfill gas-extraction projects developed by EMM.
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South Africa: Power distributors urged to invest
(03/05/2007)
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The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) has released its findings of an audit into 11 mainly major electricity distributors in the country, recommending that the government spend more than R400-million in refurbishing them.
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Namibia: Licence for wind farm granted
(25/04/2007)
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A licence was granted to investors for the erection of a large wind-power project that could eventually generate 25 per cent of Namibia's electricity supply.
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SADC Energy Ministers Meet in Harare, Zimbabwe
(24/04/2007)
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The Ministers responsible for Energy in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) met at the Rainbow Towers in Harare, Zimbabwe on the 25th April 2007. The meeting was opened by Honourable Vice President Amai J T Mujuru.
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Finavera Plans 20 MW Wave Energy Project
(20/04/2007)
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Finavera Renewables Inc. has completed the preliminary site evaluation and selection process for its 20-megawatt (MW) wave energy project in South Africa. The project is the result of a commitment made by Finavera Renewables at the 2006 Clinton Global Initiative (CGI).
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Zambia experimenting with Renewable Energy technology
(23/03/2007)
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A project in Southern Africa is helping promote the use of renewable energy sources. It’s called INSABA -- The Integrated Southern Africa Business Advisory and is funded by a German NGO called IN-Went.
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Africa-Europe Energy Partnership initiated
(16/03/2007)
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In response to an invitation extended by the German government and the European Commission, more than 220 representatives of African and European countries, international financial institutions, UN organisations, NGOs and other decision-makers met in Berlin for the Africa-Europe Energy Forum 2007.
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Maputo to host Africa energy ministers meeting
(16/03/2007)
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Twenty-two African energy Ministers and specialists from the continent and different parts of the world will meet in the capital Maputo next week to discuss petroleum and gas explorations as well as upscaling of energy access in Africa.
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Rwanda: Saving Energy "One Lamp at a Time"
(16/03/2007)
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The Rwandan Ministry of Infrastructure has begun to distribute 50,000 Compact Flourescent Lamps (CFLs) as part of the World Bank’s Urgent Electricity Rehabilitation Project.
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South Africa launches solar heater project
(15/03/2007)
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South Africa, through public energy company CEF, has launched a six-month pilot project to introduce solar water heating in middle- to upper-income homes as the country seeks to exploit one of its most abundant resources - sunshine.
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Mocambique: Black & Veatch to study Lurio river potential
(15/03/2007)
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Mozambique's national power company, Electricidade de Moçambique, has awarded Black & Veatch a contract funded under a US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) grant to study the feasibility of using the lower Lurio river in northern Mozambique as a hydro power source.
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Angola: Power from Capanda to double
(08/03/2007)
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The Capanda hydroelectric ham in Angola's northern Malanje province is set to double its power output in July with another two 130MW units, increasing electricity supply to the capital, Luanda.
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UN launches the International Biofuels Forum
(02/03/2007)
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In launching its International Biofuels Forum the United Nations said that the forum will contribute to creating a world market for alternative fuels, resulting in economic, social and environmental benefits for developed and developing countries alike.
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Namibia: Motorola and MTC Namibia to install solar-wind hybrid system
(12/02/2007)
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Motorola has announced that it has signed an agreement with the GSM Association (GSMA) and MTC Namibia to conduct a trial for wind and solar power systems to support the African operator’s remote GSM cell sites. This is the first customer based trial globally and the trial is expected to run from April 2007 to July 2007.
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Uganda to launch the first community microhydro plant
(09/02/2007)
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The East African Energy Technology Development Network (EAETDN) - Uganda Chapter is carrying out a feasibility study to pave way for the construction of the first community based 35 - 40 kilowatt Dirigana Micro-Hydro Power Demonstration Project in Sironko
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South Africa: power output up 2.8%
(02/02/2007)
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South Africa, which generates most of its power by burning coal, increased electricity production by 2.8 percent in December from a year earlier.
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Kenya: JBIC to fund Sang'oro hydro power
(25/01/2007)
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The Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) has signed a 5.6B yen (US$46.6M) ODA loan agreement to fund the Sang'oro hydro power plant in Nyanza province, western Kenya.
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South Africa: Biofuels strategy welcomed by industry
(10/01/2007)
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The local biofuels industry has welcomed last month’s approval and publication by Cabinet of a draft biofuels strategy, describing it as an “enormously positive step in the development of a local renewable fuel industry”.
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Zambia eyes two bidders for power project
(10/01/2007)
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Two firms are in the running to construct a new power station in Zambia as part of a $1,2-billion plan to address looming power shortages, a senior minister said on Tuesday.
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Botswana: Government to electrify 88 villages
(22/12/2006)
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Government has appointed the Botswana Power Corporation to implement the electrification of 88 villages using renewable energy, says the corporations 2006 annual report.
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Southern Africa: SADC adding generation capacity
(13/12/2006)
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Southern Africa has embarked on a number of short and long-term projects to bolster its power generation capacity by more than 42 000 megawatts as the region steps up efforts to avert a shortage of electricity in 2007.
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Kenya: interconnextion with South Africa
(01/12/2006)
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The new inter-regional power development initiatives will force Tanzania to get connected to the South African Power Pool beginning March next year. The pressure would come from Kenya which envisages to construct a power line to link Kenya and Tanzanian national grids through Arusha, so that it can buy electricity from South Africa Pool.
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South Africa: Eskom mulls ocean-current power option
(17/11/2006)
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Africa's biggest electricity supplier, Eskom was working with the UK and Norway to establish means by which it could best exploit the large-scale of ocean currents surrounding South Africa to generate electricity.
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Uganda: EU funds US$20 million towards Bujagali
(14/11/2006)
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It has been reported that the European Union (EU) has joined the World Bank to fund the development of the 250MW Bujagali hydro-power station in Uganda, committing US$20 million for construction of the power station.
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Tunisia: wind power to reach 180 MW by 2008
(14/11/2006)
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The chronic rise in oil prices has prompted Tunisian authorities to invest in renewable energies such as wind power. 15 years ago, when the Sidi Daoud (Cap Bon area) site was set up it produced 8,7 MW worth of electricity, in 2007 with the extension of the site it is expected that it will produce some 34 MW, a small amount in comparison with that produced by petrol or gas induced power plants but not so negligible, when one is aware that it saved the state budget some 10 million dinars.
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Ghana Telecom goes solar
(10/11/2006)
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In the face of energy challenges, Ghana Telecom (GT) plans to use solar as the main source of power to drive the over 300 cell sites it operates in the country.
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South Africa: ESKOM not willing to hand over DSM fund to CEF
(03/11/2006)
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A directive from the minister of minerals and energy says the bulk of this money should go to the Central Energy Fund (CEF) where a set of new agencies are charged with moving the economy to a more green footing. But Eskom is refusing to give up the money.
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Mozambique leader hails dam deal with Portugal
(02/11/2006)
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Mozambican President Armando Guebuza on Wednesday hailed Portugal's transfer of control of a huge hydroelectric plant to its former colony as the end of "the final redoubt of foreign domination".
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South Africa: European assistance for biofuels-strategy task team
(01/11/2006)
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The European Union (EU) is funding the establishment of a biofuels task team in South Africa, to draw up a strategy to take to Cabinet at its next economic cluster meeting, Department of Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica said this week.
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DRC: World Bank lines up tenders for Inga study
(26/10/2006)
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The World Bank has received 25 expressions of interest, including a few from South Africa, to conduct a financial feasibility study for the third phase of the Inga hydroelectric power station in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
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Mozambique: Cahora Bassa deal by end of October?
(26/10/2006)
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The final agreement to hand over majority ownership of the Cahora Bassa hydroelectric dam, in the western Mozambican province of Tete, to the Mozambican state, may be signed in Maputo by 31 October.
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Solar power: cheap energy source for Africa
(26/10/2006)
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Electrifying rural areas poses unique challenges for African governments. Remote and scattered, rural homes, unlike homes in urban areas, are costly and often impractical to connect to the grid. Under the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), countries are seeking innovative alternatives to give rural families efficient means to cook their food and light their homes.
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2007 Global Development Marketplace
(25/10/2006)
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Development Marketplace 2007 is offering US$4 Million in awards for proposals with innovative ideas to improve health, nutrition, population outcomes of poor people in developing countries.
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Uganda: First ever solar-powered airport
(25/10/2006)
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By next year, Uganda will be building an airport powered by the sun! This solar powered airport will be the first of its kind in Africa. Taking eight months for its construction starting January next year, it would worth US$40million.
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Botswana Another advance for coal-based power station
(18/10/2006)
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Toronto Stock-Exchange and Botswana Stock-Exchange-listed CIC Energy has signed a binding heads of agreement with International Power (IP) a leading independent power generation company, regarding the proposed development of a power station at the Mmamabula Energy project, in Botswana.
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South Africa: Eskom moves into the DRC
(16/10/2006)
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Peaceful presidential elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at the end of this month will be critical for southern Africa's plans to increase its power generation capacity and meet rising demand from new investments.
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South Africa: Rewiring Electricity
(12/10/2006)
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Government attempts to inject some efficiency and order into the way the country's electricity is distributed to homes and businesses have, once again, met with a storm of protest.
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DRC: First-half 2007 completion for Inga hydropower study
(06/10/2006)
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The World Bank-funded Inga Three feasibility study was scheduled to be completed in the first half of 2007, with implementation scheduled soon thereafter, African Union commissioner Bernard Zoba said in Johannesburg on Friday
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DRC: Roundtable on Grand Inga Ends
(06/10/2006)
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An important roundtable on the development of the hydroelectricity potential of the Inga in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) wound up on Friday in Johannesburg.
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South Africa: Two time zones for peak shaving?
(01/10/2006)
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South Africa should be split into two time zones to stagger peak hour demand on Eskom. This is according to Eskom council member and electrical engineer Professor Christo Viljoen.
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Namibia: Looking to the Wind
(28/09/2006)
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Namibia’s wind regime has finally generated some serious interest, leading to developers from the Netherlands submitting a proposal for consideration to the country’s power utility, NamPower.
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Namibia: Energy Status Quo must change
(11/09/2006)
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The Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Institute (REEEI) is to embark on research on energy sources that could be developed and implemented.
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Ghana: Power shortage cuts ALCOA
(05/09/2006)
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THE VOLTA Aluminium Company (VALCO)’s smelter in Tema has shut half of its pot lines down because of a request by the State Power Authority to reduce electricity use.
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Zambia: Marli Investments to spend $16 M on bio-diesel plant
(05/09/2006)
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MARLI Investment Zambia Limited has committed to spend about US $16 million in a plant that will produce bio-diesel from jatropha. According to company public relations director Kamal Desai, the investment would be rolled over three years though the production of bio-diesel is likely to start next year.
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South Africa: cogeneration opportunities
(04/09/2006)
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In a country ranked among the top energy-intensive economies in the world, South Africa is going all out to find strategies to tackle its ever-increasing power demands.
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Ghana: E-CARE installations begin in two regions
(01/09/2006)
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The United Nations Foundations (UNF) and the Telecom Management Partner (TMP) has begun the implementation of the Electronic Commerce and Renewable Energy (E-CARE) project initiated in 2003 to bridge the digital divide between the urban and the rural areas with the installation of state-of-the-art telecommunication facilities in two regions in the Southern part of the country.
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South Africa: 31 firms in energy-conservation pledge
(01/09/2006)
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Seven more signatories and members of the National Business Initiative (NBI) have added their names to the 31 companies already pledged to South Africa’s Energy Efficiency Accord, which forms part of a national drive to encourage more efficient use of energy.
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South Africa: oil majors willing to market biofuels, but caution on quality
(31/08/2006)
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The South African Petroleum Industry Association (Sapia), which represented all of South Africa oil majors, supported government's strategy for the introduction of biofuels into the market, but economic realities and fuel qualities needed strong consideration, executive director Colin McClelland said in the association's 2005 report published Thursday.
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Ashden Awards 2007 open for applications
(30/08/2006)
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Applications are open for schemes using renewable energy to improve people's quality of life while tackling environmental threats. Closing date for concept notes is 14 November 2006.
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Botswana: oil price fuels biomass energy
(28/08/2006)
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As anxiety mounts about the security of oil and gas supplies, countries around the world are falling back on a familiar energy source - Biomass. Although crude oil prices have eased slightly from the recent high, countries have fallen for alternative sources of energy for use in motor vehicles and other domestic uses.
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South Africa: PPA for Sub-Saharan Africa’s first IPP wind farm
(28/08/2006)
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Almost three years after the 2nd World Wind Energy Conference
was held in Cape Town, the Mayor of the City of Cape Town, Helen Zille, and the CEO of Darling
Wind Farm, Hermann Oelsner, signed recently a 20-year contract for the supply of green
electricity from the Darling Wind Farm. The Power Purchase Agreement was the last remaining
milestone required for financial closure of the first Sub-Saharan African IPP wind farm project.
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Uganda: Coca-Cola funds solar water project
(28/08/2006)
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Century bottling company, makers of Coca-Cola together with Solar Light for Africa and USAID have completed a water electrification project for Kalungi Health center in Uganda.
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Nigeria: Solar Power Brings Relief to Villagers
(25/08/2006)
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Bishop Kodji, a small fishing and canoe carving island in the Atlantic Ocean off Nigeria's sprawling commercial hub of Lagos, has become the first village to be electrified under the Lagos State government's pilot solar energy project.
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Zimbabwe: Use of solar energy urged
(25/08/2006)
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Zimbabwe can immensely benefit from the use of solar energy as a viable source of power in view of the current electricity shortages, the Minister of Energy and Power Development Retired Lieutenant General Michael Nyambuya has said.
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Ghana: Internal Hydro turbines for low impact
(16/08/2006)
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Internal Hydro International Inc. announces the first unit sales for two units of the 30 Kilowatt Energy Commander low impact hydro units for a purchase price of $60,000. The units will be delivered within 180 days under the contract terms, which includes pre-payment of one third the purchase price on immediate terms. Both units are contracted for primary purchase by Kingswell Financial, LLC, of Maryland for use in residential developments in Ghana under limited use terms.
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Uganda: micro hydro sites identified
(15/08/2006)
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Sezibwa Falls, in Uganda's Mukono district, is to host a pilot scheme of five micro hydroelectric plants that will be developed by Japan's Tanaka Company.
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Botswana: UNDP GEF project under way
(08/08/2006)
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In a bid to promote clean energy use and reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) and the emission of carbon dioxide, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Government of Botswana and the Botswana Power Corporation, are launching a renewable energy project aimed at assisting Botswana's rural communities.
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South Africa: Sugar group has 200m litre bioethanol vision
(31/07/2006)
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Agricultural group Tongaat-Hulett believes that it has the potential to contribute 200-million litres of biofuel within Southern Africa, as South Africa eyes the production of 1,2-billion litres of fuel-grade ethanol a year, the company disclosed on Monday July 31, 2006.
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Uganda & Ethiopia: pilot test stove carbon initiative
(31/07/2006)
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Carbon Positive has secured financing to design and distribute clean burning stoves in a pilot project in Uganda and Ethiopia. During the pilot project various stove designs and distribution and monitoring models will be tested
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South Africa: Solar-energy internship launched
(28/07/2006)
|
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Leading South African solar-heating company Suntank has launched an intensive internship program for engineering students wishing to gain exposure to the solar energy industry.
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African nations form biofuel group
(28/07/2006)
|
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Thirteen of Africa's poorest nations have joined forces to
become global suppliers of biofuels -- fuel produced from organic
material or plant oils. In a meeting in Senegal, they formed the African
Non-Petroleum Producers Association (PANPP), aimed at developing
alternative energy sources.
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Namibia & Angola: development of Baynes
(27/07/2006)
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Construction work on the Baynes hydroelectric power station - which is co-funded by NamPower and Angolan power utility ENE - will start soon following the signing of a bilateral agreement between the two governments.
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Mozambique: hydro top priority
(25/07/2006)
|
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The top priority of the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), the grouping of electricity companies of the SADC (Southern African Development Community) region, "is to find a timely solution to the problem of the energy deficit in our region", declared Mozambican Energy Minister Salvador Namburete at the opening on 26 April of a meeting of the SAPP Executive Committee in Maputo.
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Nigeria: ECN - Transforming the Energy Landscape Through New Devices
(03/07/2006)
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Moved by the deteriorating power supply in the country, environmental damage by fossil foil and the mass rural and urban unemployment, the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has now initiated moves to popularize the exploitation of the numerous renewable energy sources available to the country.
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Mali: World Bank approves IDA credits
(03/07/2006)
|
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The World Bank Board of Executive Directors has approved three US$25M International Development Association (IDA) credits to the Republic of Mali, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania and the Republic of Senegal to finance the development of Félou hydroelectric project in Mali.
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Cooperation between GTZ and E+Co launched
(02/07/2006)
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Getting the private sector involved is a crucial factor when seeking to improve the energy situation in developing countries. In May 2006, the GTZ advisory project "Energizing Africa" launched a cooperation project with E+Co, a public investment company that specialises in providing support for small and medium clean energy enterprises in developing countries.
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Madagascar: PPP hydro project between e7 and GTZ
(01/07/2006)
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The Lokoho Hydro Project is a public-private partnership (PPP) between GTZ, the private partners e7 (an institution set up by the world's largest electric utility companies) and Electricité de Madagascar (EDM). The project aims at integrating electricity generated by a newly constructed 4 MW hydro power plant into a comprehensive rural development approach. The electricity it provides enables productive economic processes and creates income for the rural population.
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"Biomass Energy Strategy (BEST)" Initiative for Africa
(01/07/2006)
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The Biomass Energy Strategy (BEST) initiative aims at building awareness and creating a way forward so that the growing demand for biomass energy in Africa can be met in a sustainable manner. Offering tools and instruments for process design, the initiative will support selected governments in developing national biomass energy strategies, addressing traditional household fuelwood and charcoal supply and demand as well as modern form of biomass such as liquid biofuels or biomass power generation.
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Zambia completes feasibility on hydro stations
(29/06/2006)
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Feasibility studies for the development of two hydro power stations with a combined capacity of 870MW have been completed by the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO), local media reports.
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Tanzania: Ashden Award for Sustainable brick-firing technology
(28/06/2006)
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The Mwanza Rural Housing Programme (MRHP) in Tanzania has won an Ashden Award for their Sustainable brick-firing technology. This Sustainable brick-firing technology that uses rice husks, cotton waste and coffee husks instead of wood to fire bricks for house building, leads to thousands of new homes for the people of Mwanza.
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Aprovecho / ProBEC to receive Ashden Award
(28/06/2006)
|
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An Ashden Award has ben honoured to Aprovecho / ProBEC for the ‘rocket stove’ that spreads throughout southern Africa dramatically reducing the use of fuel wood
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Sierra Leone: More funds for Bumbuna
(28/06/2006)
|
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In a bid to expedite the completion of the Bumbuna hydroelectric project by August next year, the Islamic Development Bank has advanced a sum of US$10M to Sierra Leone.
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Uganda: budget boosts power development
(20/06/2006)
|
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A severe drought which hit Uganda's economy over the last year has prompted the government to prioritise large hydro developments in its latest budget for 2006-2007.
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Ghana: China to finance Bui Dam?
(19/06/2006)
|
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China is likely to finance a $600 million hydroelectric dam in northern Ghana which could boost the West African country's gold and iron ore industries, officials said during a visit by Chinese premier Wen Jiabao.
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Kenya: Kengen to set up SCADA system
(14/06/2006)
|
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KenGen, Kenya's state owned power generator, has begun the installation of SCADA (Supervisory, Control and Data Acquisition) system for its six main hydro stations.
|
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Zambia seeks investors in hydropower projects
(14/06/2006)
|
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Zambia was seeking foreign investment for projects to add 6 000 megawatts of electricity to its national grid to meet growing demand and a regional deficit, trade and commerce minister Dipak Patel said yesterday.
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South Africa: First solar powered village
(12/06/2006)
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A South African electrical engineer and a property development company have teamed up to create the country’s first solar-powered village. The 100-house development in Clanwilliam will generate enough electricity for all household needs and, if the sun keeps shining, homeowners will be able to sell electricity back to Eskom.
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South Africa: GM maize for biofuels
(02/06/2006)
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The genetic modification (GM) battlefield has been extended to biofuels production, with South Africa featuring among a number of countries that are being asked to allow the import of GM maize to make ethanol. Ethanol, made from crops such as sugar cane and maize, is attracting interest internationally as a relatively benign, renewable energy source that is cost-effective at current oil prices
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South Africa's wave power potential
(19/05/2006)
|
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Scottish company Ocean Power Delivery, which develops technology to generate power from waves, is considering a R7-billion development off the coast of Mossel Bay that could generate 700 megawatts of electricity, according to Business Report. The company is talking to the South African Department of Minerals and Energy and a potential local partner, Port Elizabeth-based Genesis Eco-Energy, about developing a pilot plant at Mossel Bay, 400 kilometres east of Cape Town.
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Power crunch undermining Africa investment, growth
(19/05/2006)
|
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Chronic power shortages across Africa are undermining investment, industrial development and economic growth and keeping the poorest continent poor, said ministers and bankers at a financial summit ending on Thursday.
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Ethiopia: contract signed for Beles
(15/05/2006)
|
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VA TECH HYDRO, one of the world´s leading suppliers of hydropower plant equipment and services, has signed the contract for the hydropower plant BELES in Ethiopia. The order was placed by the civil company SALINI COSTRUTTORI S.P.A, the turnkey supplier of this plant.
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Sudan: More trouble at Merowe site
(09/05/2006)
|
|
Three people were killed and more than 50 wounded on 22 April in clashes involving local people resisting resettlement as part of the 1,250MW Merowe (Hamdab) dam project.
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Uganda: Solar power to run Katakwi water project
(04/05/2006)
|
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The government is to switch to solar power to run the Shs1billion water system in Katakwi district, the Assistant Commissioner for Urban Water Supply, Mr Dominic Kavutse, has said.
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Investment in cleaner household energy yields major health and economic benefit
(04/05/2006)
|
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A new report titled Fuel for Life: Household Energy and Health produced by the World Health Organisation, reports that approximately 485 000 people in the next ten years would need to access to cleaner fuels in order to halve by 2015 the population relying on solid fuels. This report demonstrates that investing in cleaner household fuels can yield a seven-fold economic benefit in health and productivity gains.
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DRC: Refurbishment work starts on Inga II
(01/05/2006)
|
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MagEnergy has begun work on the first phase of the rehabilitation and refurbishment programme for the Inga II hydroelectric project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
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Ethiopia building 3 hydropower dams
(19/04/2006)
|
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Ethiopia is building three hydropower dams at a cost of $1,4-billion and hopes to generate millions of dollars in foreign currency by exporting excess electricity to three neighbouring countries.
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Hydro crucial in Africa's development agenda
(11/03/2006)
|
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Africa’s first major governmental conference on hydropower and sustainable development, hosted by the South African government in Johannesburg, 6-9 March, has concluded with the adoption of a Ministerial Declaration that reinforces hydropower’s role as a crucial renewable source of energy to move forward Africa’s development agenda.
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Botswana: Massive solar project targets 88 villages
(08/03/2006)
|
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A massive solar-based rural electrification of at least 88 villages is expected to be rolled out countrywide mid this year. Finance Minister Baledzi Gaolathe announced the P34 million National Rural Photovoltaic Electrification Programme during the 2005-2
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Hydropower in Africa must benefit the poor
(03/03/2006)
|
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A report published today by WWF, Oxfam and WaterAid reveals that hydropower has the potential to contribute to reducing Africa’s energy poverty, but calls for a greater emphasis in energy policies on providing benefits for the poorest people and reducing damage to ecosystems.
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Cameroon - power plant refurbishment
(15/02/2006)
|
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An international invitation for pre-qualification has been issued by AES SONEL for the Edéa hydro power plant refurbishment project, comprising the engineering, procurement, construction, start-up and commissioning of the plant in Cameroon.
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Biomass CDM Projects – A Call to Action
(12/02/2006)
|
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Cooking stove projects in the CDM are under threat from a ruling preventing them from accessing carbon funding, although a recent decision allows for the possibility of their return, pending development and acceptance of a methodology.
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Mag Industries to refurbish Inga
(09/02/2006)
|
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Africa's great energy hope, Inga, is to see its capacity increased when industrial group Mag Industries starts a refurbishment programme on its turbines.
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KfW Special Facility for Renewable Energies
(03/02/2006)
|
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The German federal government and KfW Entwicklungsbank have set up a Special Facility for Renewable Energies and Energy Efficiency with a volume of EUR 500 million.
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Zambia: Kafue gorge power station moves on after the mudslide
(01/01/2006)
|
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The Utility Wide Safety Committee (UWSC) comprising officials from Energy Regulation Board (ERB), ZESCO Limited, University of Zambia, and Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) recently visited Kafue Gorge Power station to check on the rehabilitation works being undertaken at the power station following the mudslide of 2005.
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Uganda: PPA signed for Bujagali
(19/12/2005)
|
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A long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) has been signed between the government of Uganda and Bujagali Energy, for the planned 250MW Bujagali hydroelectric power project.
|
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Hydro crucial in climate change battle
(08/12/2005)
|
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The Honourable Stéphane Dion, Canada’s Minister of the Environment and president of the United Nations Climate Change conference, confirmed hydro power’s contribution to fighting climate change at an event held during the 11th Conference of the Parties an
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Ugandan plants upgrade
(29/11/2005)
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In order to mitigate its shortage of power and meet the current demand, Uganda has identified a number of hydro power projects which are a priority for capacity increase.
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Ghana signs Bui dam MoU with China
(29/11/2005)
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Ghana has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China’s Sino-Hydro for the construction of the Bui dam hydro project in the Brong Ahafo Region.
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Biodiesel projects to roll out in Africa
(11/11/2005)
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UK-based global producer of biodiesel from renewable energy crops D1 Oil's African subsidiary D1 Oils Africa is on the verge of rolling out projects in Africa to help combat the high oil price.
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Portugal signs over Mozambican dam
(04/11/2005)
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Portugal is to give Mozambique a controlling stake in the Cahora Bassa
hydroelectric project, one of the biggest dams in Africa.
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Nigeria approves hydro project
(27/10/2005)
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The Federal government of Nigeria has approved the 2000MW Mambilla Plateau hydro power project in Adamawa State.
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Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy
(11/10/2005)
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The Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy are now looking for entries from
inspirational and innovative local sustainable energy projects from across
the globe to compete for £350,000 of prize money.
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World Bank says backs Uganda hydropower project
(30/09/2005)
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The World Bank supports long- delayed plans by Uganda to build a new $400-million hydropower plant on the Nile, but the extent of its financial involvement is yet to be decided, the international lender said yesterday.
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Ghana: 5 million euros for solar power irrigation
(29/09/2005)
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Ghana and ISOFOTON, a Spanish irrigation construction firm, signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the commencement of work on a nation-wide five million (5m) Euro solar power small irrigation projects.
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US funds for Mozambique hydro scheme
(11/09/2005)
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The US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has granted US$600,000 to help develop two hydroelectric projects on the Lurio river, in the northern region of Mozambique.
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Pre-qualification for Tana hydro station Kenya
(11/09/2005)
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Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) intends to redevelop the Tana power station on the Tana river and is inviting firms interested in tendering for the work to apply for pre-qualification.
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New studies at Baynes site
(11/09/2005)
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Angola and Namibia are proposing the development of a hydro power station on the lower Kunene river, with the Baynes site in Angola set to become the subject of fresh studies.
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First African CDM project registered
(07/09/2005)
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The Kuyasa low cost urban housing energy upgrade project in South Africa was registered by the UNFCCC CDM executive board on 27 August 2005.
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R 30m for Bethlehem hydro in South Africa
(30/08/2005)
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An independent power producer project in the Free State will see Bethlehem Hydro, a new black economic-empowerment IPP lead the construction of two hydro power stations that will partially eliminate dependence on Eskom by the Dihlabeng Municipality.
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Preparing Namibia's solar future
(01/08/2005)
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Namibia's ministry of mines and energy, through the Namibia Renewable Energy Project (NAMREP), released its findings on a recent study conducted to establish the level of implementation of various solar energy technologies in Namibia.
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Go ahead for Darling wind farm
(01/08/2005)
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South African minister of environmental affairs and tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, has turned down the only appeal against the proposed development of a commercial wind farm near Darling in the Western Cape
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Build mini-power projects in Uganda
(13/03/2005)
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MINI hydro-power stations that can be built in a year are the solution to the rampant load shedding in the country, an expert has said.
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GEF support for Zambia
(17/06/2004)
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The Global Environment Facility (GEF) approved a grant of $2.95 million to help remove the many barriers to renewable-energy systems in rural Zambia, including minihydro.
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South African windfarm combined with hydro
(30/01/2003)
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A R100-million windfarm, in Kouga in the Eastern Cape of South Africa combining wind energy with pumped storage, is on schedule and should be operational by the end of the year.
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Lesotho: ADB approves US$ 16 Million for Electricity Supply Project
(00/00/0000)
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Efforts by the Lesotho government to improve electricity supply in the country received support from the Board of Directors of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group which approved a combined loan and a grant of US$ 16.4 million, to finance the country’s Electricity Supply Project.
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