Total Project Cost
Investment Required
Stakeholders
Countries
Project Overview
Description
The hydroelectric development sites on the Lobaye are located in the South-West of the Central African Republic (CAR), in the locality of M'baïki, 100 km from Bangui. This location is par excellence favorable to the supply of electricity to border countries such as the Republic of Congo in its North-Eastern part, the DRC in its equatorial part (the city of Libengué and its surroundings). The Lobaye project, with an installed capacity of 60 MW.
Objectives
For the Central African Republic - Interconnection with the Boalibangui system, interconnection with the lines from DimouI, and Inga - Supply the Prefecture de Mbïaand the forestry and mining companies which are located there. For the Republic of Congo: - Supply the towns and new villages and Betou - Supply the forestry companies established in the region. For the DRC - Supply the town of LIBENGE and its surroundings.
Strategic Importance
Strategic project to enhance electricity supply in a severely underserved region, supporting economic development across borders.
Technical Specifications
Technology & Design
Hydroelectric power plants on the Lobaye River.
Capacity & Size
60 MW total installed capacity
Technical Details
Hydroelectric development with an installed capacity of 60 MW, with transmission infrastructure to connect with neighboring countries.
Development, Implementation & Financial Details
Development Timeline
Feasibility studies to be completed by 2024, with project structuring by 2025.
Latest Implementation Updates
UPDATEDFinancing Structure
The project is expected to be financed through a combination of public funding and support from development finance institutions.
Capital Structure
80% debt, 20% equity
Project Timeline
Start Date
January 2024
Expected Completion
December 2030
Development Timeline
Feasibility studies to be completed by 2024, with project structuring by 2025.
Project Status History
Status 2020
Feasibility
Status 2022
Feasibility
Status 2024
Feasibility
Additional Project Details
Preparation Funding Gap
USD 2.00M
Construction Timeline
Construction expected to take 3-4 years after financial close.
Legal & Financial Advisors
To be appointed
Market Analysis
Market Analysis
Severe electricity shortages in the project area, with significant unmet demand.
Market Demand
Growing demand for electricity to support economic development in a post-conflict context.
Key Stakeholders
Project Sponsor
Ministry of Energy and Hydraulic Resources, CAR
Key Parties
Ministry of Energy and Hydraulic Resources (CAR)
Investors
Government of CAR, African Development Bank, World Bank
Contractors & Operators
To be determined through competitive procurement
Risk Assessment
General Risk Assessment
Political risks due to regional instability, financing challenges, technical implementation risks.
Regulatory Risks
Regulatory framework may require strengthening to support cross-border power trade.
Impact Assessment
Environmental Impact
Environmental impact assessment required, with focus on river flow management.
Social Impact
Enhanced energy access, support for economic development, potential for regional cooperation.
Investment Opportunities
Private Sector Opportunities
Participation in feasibility studies. There is good private sector interest in power generation projects hence the possibility of PPPs in implementation are good if the enabling environment is in place.
Next Steps & Agreements
Next Steps
Complete feasibility studies, secure financing, begin project structuring
Offtake Agreements
Power purchase agreements to be established with national utility and utilities in neighboring countries.
Contact Information
Ministry of Energy and Hydraulic Resources, CAR
