In July 2024, Mozambique's Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy (MIREME) initiated a significant tender for the development of decentralized solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage systems (BESS). This initiative, funded by a grant from the German government through the KfW Development Bank, is part of the Global Energy Transfer Feed-in Tariff (GET FiT) Mozambique Program, which aims to enhance the country's renewable energy infrastructure.
Tender Details
The Energy Regulatory Authority (ARENE) is overseeing the tender process, seeking to select two experienced Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to develop, finance, construct, own, operate, and transfer two lots of PV and BESS projects. These projects are to be located in the provinces of Nampula, Zambézia, Sofala, and Gaza. The tender process includes an international competitive bidding procedure with a prequalification stage, adhering to Mozambique’s legal framework and KfW’s procurement guidelines. Interested firms can access the Prequalification Documents in both English and Portuguese by registering with ARENE. Upon registration, firms must sign a confidentiality undertaking and can nominate up to four users for data room access. Applications must be submitted in sealed envelopes to ARENE’s Procurement Department in Maputo by 12:00 p.m. on September 13, 2024.
Context and Objectives
This tender represents a significant step towards Mozambique’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By the end of 2023, Mozambique had an installed solar capacity of 83 MW, according to figures from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The country’s Power Infrastructure Master Plan sets a target of 50% of its energy generation to come from renewable energy sources by 2043.
The GET FiT Mozambique Program aims to support decentralized utility solar PV and BESS projects, leveraging the expertise of IPPs to achieve these goals. The program is expected to enhance the use of hydro, solar PV, and battery-based energy storage, contributing to the country's efforts to achieve universal, sustainable electricity access by 2030.
Conclusion
The launch of this tender underscores Mozambique's dedication to advancing its renewable energy sector and improving energy access for its population. By leveraging international support and its abundant solar potential, Mozambique aims to significantly enhance its renewable energy capacity, providing a blueprint for other nations in the region to follow. With the deadline for pre-qualification approaching, interested firms have the opportunity to contribute to shaping the energy landscape of Mozambique for decades to come.
