The Jindal Mmamabula Energy Project (JMEP) is a major coal-fired power and mining development in Botswana. It is being undertaken by Jindal Energy (Botswana), a subsidiary of Jindal Steel & Power, through its regional arm Jindal Africa. The project is located in the Mmamabula coalfield area in southeastern Botswana, between Gaborone and Francistown.

The initiative combines both coal mining and power generation, designed to provide baseload electricity to Botswana and the wider Southern African region. Initially, the project will develop a 300 MW coal-fired power plant, with future expansion potential to reach up to 600 MW.

Key Project Details
Aspect Details
Phase I Capacity 300 MW (2 × 150 MW net units)
Gross Output Approximately 2 × 175 MW (gross)
Expansion Potential Up to 600 MW (additional 2 × 150 MW units)
Project Lifespan Estimated 30 years
Availability Target Around 90% average annual plant availability
Emission Standards SOx < 400 mg/nm³, NOx < 200 mg/nm³, Particulates < 50 mg/nm³
Fuel Source Coal from Jindal’s own Mmamabula coal mine
Water & Fuel Storage 15 days’ water storage and 50 days’ coal storage at full load
Ownership Model Independent Power Producer (IPP) – Jindal will build, own, operate, and maintain the plant
Offtaker Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
Estimated Cost Approximately BWP 13 billion to BWP 15 billion (around USD 1 billion)
Construction Timeline Roughly 36 months from financial close to commissioning
Coal Mine and Resource Base

The Mmamabula coalfield hosts significant reserves, estimated in the billions of tonnes of coal. Jindal’s operations will involve both open-cast and underground mining methods. The initial production target is around 4.5 million tonnes of coal per year—sufficient to supply the power plant and allow for potential exports.

Infrastructure development includes the construction of a new tarred access road, water facilities, and transmission connections to the national grid.

Economic and Strategic Importance

Energy Security – The project will enhance Botswana’s ability to meet its domestic power needs and reduce reliance on imports.

Baseload Power Supply – As a stable energy source, it will provide reliable generation capacity to strengthen the national grid.

Regional Integration – Surplus electricity may be exported to neighboring Southern African countries.

Job Creation and Local Impact – Thousands of jobs are expected during construction and operation, with benefits for local contractors and suppliers.

Industrial Growth Catalyst – The project supports Botswana’s goal of industrializing its energy sector and creating value from domestic coal reserves.

Environmental and Social Aspects

While the project includes provisions for emissions controls and environmental management, it remains a coal-based development and thus raises concerns regarding carbon emissions, air quality, and water use. Environmental impact assessments and community consultations are part of the project approval process.

Current Status (as of 2025)

Jindal has secured approximately BWP 15 billion in funding and achieved financial close for the project.

Preparations for full-scale construction are underway.

Phase I (300 MW) is expected to become operational in the late 2020s.

Botswana’s government has signaled interest in supporting an eventual expansion to 600 MW.