MAPUTO, May 22 (Xinhua) -- Mozambican President Daniel Chapo on Tuesday underscored his government's ambition to transform Mozambique into a regional energy hub.
During his address at the International Conference commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Cahora Bassa hydropower plant (HCB) here, Chapo emphasized the strategic role of HCB in ensuring energy stability for both Mozambique and Southern Africa, calling it a cornerstone of national development.
He also expressed gratitude for the ongoing cooperation from neighboring countries in strengthening the region's energy sector.
The president stressed the urgent need to modernize HCB's infrastructure, pointing out that its 2,075-megawatt capacity has remained unchanged since 1975. He also warned that climate change, particularly the ongoing drought in the Zambezi basin, poses increasing challenges to hydroelectric production.
Chapo reaffirmed the government's commitment to expanding the country's energy infrastructure, citing key projects such as the Temane gas plant, various solar power stations, and new hydroelectric initiatives as part of efforts to diversify Mozambique's energy mix.
According to Deloitte's Africa Energy Outlook 2024, with the country's vast gas reserves, Mozambique could emerge as one of the world's top producers, accounting for 20 percent of Africa's electricity production by 2040.
"We want to make Mozambique a regional energy hub," Chapo said, urging participants to offer their ideas on how to build a sustainable and resilient energy future for the region. ■