Power demand to rise 25% during winter

BPC is struggling to repair Morupule B as power demand surges
BPC is struggling to repair Morupule B as power demand surges

The Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) has pleaded with consumers to use electricity sparingly as they try to repair the troubled Morupule B plant ahead of an expected 25% rise in demand.

During the approaching winter season, the power utility anticipates an increase in the national demand from the current 530MW to a projected 669MW.  It says it is thus working on ensuring that all the units are restored at the earliest possible time to avoid any possible power supply interruptions. In a statement, BPC said there are currently two units (Unit 2 and 4) in full operation delivering about 260MW.

 “Unit 1 and 3, which contribute a further 260MW are out of operation and this is mainly due to the ongoing maintenance on these. The corporation expects Unit 1 to be functional in terms of contribution of an additional 130MW to the national grid by mid-June 2016 if not earlier while Unit 3’s date of operation has not yet been established,” stated BPC.

Editor's Comment
Gov't must guard against cadre deployment

As the Botswana National Front (BNF) discusses a policy to place suitably qualified members in strategic positions, the guiding consideration should remain whether an individual is the best person to serve the country. There is nothing wrong with qualified party members applying for public positions. Political affiliation should neither disqualify a capable candidate nor give them an advantage over others. Every Motswana deserves a fair...

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