The Republic of the Congo is poised for a significant boost in its energy capacity with the upcoming construction of the Sounda Hydropower Plant, set to begin in the first half of 2025. This ambitious project, which will be situated in the Kouilou district about 130 kilometers from Pointe-Noire, aims to add a substantial 800 MW to the nation’s energy grid by 2030.
Official Launch and Planning
The project was officially set in motion with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on September 11, 2024, between Émile Ouosso, the Republic of the Congo’s Minister of Energy and Hydraulics, and Li Xi Zhen, CEO of China Overseas Corporation. This engineering firm has been tasked with the construction of what will become one of the largest dams in the country. The MoU details a step-by-step plan to launch this massive hydropower endeavor in an organized and structured manner.
One of the key actions outlined in the MoU is a site visit scheduled for the end of September 2024. This visit will evaluate the project’s plans and identify the necessary infrastructure requirements to ensure a smooth commencement. Following this crucial inspection, both a Steering Committee and a Technical Committee will be established to oversee the entire construction process. Additionally, a draft construction agreement will be signed, further formalizing the commencement of the project.
Impact on National Energy Capacity
The Sounda Hydropower Plant is expected to play a critical role in boosting the Republic of the Congo’s energy capacity. It will complement the country’s three existing hydropower plants—the 120 MW Imboulou project, the 74 MW Moukoukoulou plant, and the 19 MW Djoué facility—thereby fortifying the nation’s energy infrastructure. Li Xi Zhen expressed strong confidence in the company’s ability to deliver exceptional work, citing their successful projects in other countries as evidence of their expertise and reliability.
Optimism for the Energy Future
The announcement of the hydropower plant has spurred considerable optimism about the Republic of the Congo’s energy future. This project is seen as a major step toward sustainable energy development in the country. It aligns with broader trends across Africa and globally, where there is a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources to meet increasing energy demands while mitigating environmental impacts.
In summary, the construction of the Sounda Hydropower Plant signifies a critical development for the Republic of the Congo’s energy sector. The collaboration between the Congolese government and China Overseas Corporation is set to substantially increase the country’s energy production capacity. With meticulous planning and structured oversight promised by the MoU and the forthcoming committees, the project stands as a promising venture, reflecting broader trends toward sustainable energy initiatives in the region.
