Debswana, Botswana’s leading diamond mining company, has taken a major step toward sustainable mining by announcing its plan to acquire 450 megawatts of solar energy from Botswana Power Corporation (BPC). This development follows the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two entities.
The announcement was made by Debswana’s Executive Head of Safety and Sustainability, Mpho Mosate, who revealed that the move aligns with the company’s ambitious goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030. According to Mosate, the solar energy acquisition is a significant part of Debswana’s broader sustainability agenda, which aims to eliminate harmful emissions from all mining operations.
“This agreement marks a critical milestone in our journey to carbon neutrality. By 2030, we aim for our operations to no longer contribute to environmental degradation through carbon emissions,” said Mosate. “The partnership with BPC is a strategic step in ensuring our energy needs are met in a clean and sustainable manner.”
Debswana’s shift toward renewable energy reflects a growing trend in the global mining industry, where companies are under increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprints and embrace environmentally responsible practices. The 450 megawatts of solar power—expected to be one of the largest clean energy commitments in the country—will power several of Debswana’s mining operations across Botswana.
The company, a joint venture between the Government of Botswana and De Beers Group, has long been a key player in the country’s economy. This new sustainability effort is poised to not only improve Debswana’s environmental standing but also contribute to Botswana’s national energy transition goals.
For BPC, the deal represents an opportunity to accelerate the integration of renewable energy into the national grid, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and promote green energy investment. It is also expected to stimulate growth in the local renewable energy sector, encouraging more large-scale clean energy projects in the future.
As Debswana works toward its 2030 target, the collaboration with BPC sends a strong message about the mining company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term sustainability. With this initiative, Debswana is setting a benchmark for the region and positioning itself as a leader in green mining practices.
