Towards universal electricity access in Mozambique

Mozambique

Marcelino Gildo Alberto, chairman of Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM), talks to The Energy Year about how the company was able to reach half a million new household connections in 2023, the role of renewables in Mozambique’s energy transition and the significance of the Central Térmica de Temane. State-owned EDM engages in electricity generation, transmission, distribution and commercialisation.

What were the key factors in EDM reaching half a million new household connections in 2023?
Our main goals at EDM include achieving universal access to electricity by 2030. To reach this target, we partnered with the government to develop a comprehensive strategy. This plan outlined the steps and resources needed for nationwide electrification.
Thankfully, we secured funding from the World Bank, the EU, Norway and Sweden. This financial support, including our Energy for All programme, has been instrumental in our progress.
Our focus is on connecting customers through on-grid solutions. In 2023, we successfully connected 400,000 customers to the grid. It’s important to note that FUNAE, another government institution under the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy, also plays a role in electrification efforts. They handle connections using off-grid approaches that are complementary to our on-grid solutions.

What role do renewables play in your Energy Transition strategy?
The energy transition demands a focus on renewables, and Mozambique is well-positioned due to its abundant resources. Hydropower is a major strength, with Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa (HCB) generating a significant 2,075 MW.
We also have our hydropower stations with capacities of nearly 112 MW. While gas plays a role currently, renewables are the future. We’ve been actively developing solar energy, starting with the Mocuba plant in 2018, followed by Metoro in 2022.
Most recently, we launched the 15-MW Cuamba solar plant last September. The potential for renewables in Mozambique is vast, estimated at 23 TW.
On the hydropower side, a significant project on the horizon is the Mphanda Nkuwa Hydropower Project, which will have a massive 1.5-GW capacity. This critical development is in its advanced stages, and we’ve recently secured investment from three major companies: TotalEnergies, EDF and Sumitomo Corporation of Japan. This project will be instrumental in expanding electricity access in Mozambique.

How significant is the Central Térmica de Temane (CTT) for the electrification objectives?
The CTT project is a landmark undertaking, the largest since Mozambique’s independence. Previously, HCB held that distinction. Temane is a significant 450-MW combined-cycle gas power plant nearing completion. It’s expected to deliver its first megawatt of electricity by April 2025.
This project is crucial because it represents the initial phase of our national grid backbone. Mozambique currently has two separate grids: the central-northern grid and the southern grid linked to South Africa.
Temane will bridge this gap, initially connecting to Maputo and, then, integrating with existing substations feeding South Africa and Eswatini. It will not only enhance the quality of power supply in the southern region but also contribute to our strategic goal of regional energy integration, positioning Mozambique as a regional energy hub.

How does EDM incorporate digitalisation within its operations?
Recognising the importance of digitalisation, EDM has embraced this transformation. Our previous strategy, completed last year, laid the groundwork, and we’ve built upon it with a new plan. A key element is leveraging the existing fibre optic capacity in our transmission lines. While primarily used for operational purposes, this fibre optic infrastructure has the potential for additional applications.
To capitalise on this, we established Telefibra, a wholly-owned subsidiary focused on generating revenue through telecommunication services. Furthermore, a dedicated department director oversees telecommunication initiatives, and we’re actively implementing various initiatives such as a programme in project management and e-learning. By sharing this broader digital strategy, we hope to capture additional opportunities in the digital landscape.

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