Wind power is seen as a complementary resource to Lesotho’s existing hydropower and solar resources. Lesotho is actively seeking development partners and investors to develop wind energy as part of its Renewable Energy Strategy, with a view to increase the nation’s renewable energy capacity. Wind energy projects are part of the country’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on external energy supplies.
A wind energy developer, Hirundo Energy has a plan for Lesotho to shift its energy mix. Hirundo Energy is a renewable energy company that produces energy through wind power. The Company is developing a 60MW wind farm in Mohale’s Hoek comprising 12 turbines, each with a capacity of 5 MW. The Hirundo Energy wind farm is anticipated to commence operation in 2026. Once completed, it will produce approximately 140 GWh annually, accounting for around 15% of Lesotho’s electricity needs. The turbines will be on a mountain ridge east of Mohale’s Hoek town. The generated electricity will be fed into the LEC’s Litšoeneng 132 kV substation through a negotiated Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between LEC and Hirundo Energy.
At the launch of its offices at Mohale’s Hoek in March, Hirundo Energy’s Managing Director, Mr. Jacob Demeyer, expressed his delight at the project’s milestone. He indicated that the project was a testament to the Directors’ commitment and resilience in achieving their mission and vision. He explained that the project is going to contribute to the growth of the country’s renewable energy sources and economy.
“This project is a one of its kind in the renewable energy projects thus far. I extend my endless thanks to the Government of Lesotho, the Ministry of Energy, the European Union, the Lesotho Electricity and Water Authority, and other organisations for supporting this project. This project is going to achieve Lesotho’s aspirations of becoming the exporter of energy to other countries through different energy sources,” said Mr. Demeyer.
The Director of the Department of Energy, Mr. Mokhethi Jerry Seitlheko, also expressed his pleasure about the project on behalf of the Government of Lesotho. He explained that Hirundo Energy’s project was being launched when the country had been relying on electricity imports from neighbouring countries. The 60 MW that the project is anticipating to generate will contribute to the required energy.
On behalf of the District Administrator (DA) of Mohale’s Hoek, Mr. Litšoeneng Tiheli thanked the Government of Lesotho and all Development Partners for contributing to the realisation of the project. He explained that Hirundo Energy’s project will contribute to the district’s economic and skills development. Furthermore, he stated that the project will boost tourism in the district.
On this project, LEWA’s role was to provide guidance and facilitate means of entry into the regulated energy sector. However, Hirundo Energy has not yet applied for licence from the Authority. The government is actively promoting renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower and had set a national target of increasing renewable energy sources to 200 MW by end of this year and generate 1,000 MW of clean energy by 2030.
