en.Wedoany.com Reported - Recently, the groundbreaking ceremony for the second phase of the China-aided Mafeteng Photovoltaic Power Station was held in the town of Ramarothole in the Mafeteng region of western Lesotho. This phase is designed with an installed capacity of 50 megawatts, and upon completion, the total installed capacity will increase to 80 megawatts, aiming to alleviate Lesotho's power shortage.

In his speech at the ceremony, Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane praised the first phase of the project, stating that it marks a solid step forward for Lesotho in enhancing energy security and advancing energy transition. Matekane noted that upon completion, the Mafeteng Photovoltaic Power Station will complement the 72-megawatt Muela Hydropower Station, significantly reducing Lesotho's dependence on imported electricity. This will save nearly 1 billion Maloti (approximately $56 million) annually, funds that can be redirected to other key areas of national development.

Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho Yang Xiaokun stated that China's achievements in emerging technologies bring opportunities and empowerment to the world. The Mafeteng Photovoltaic Power Station project is one of the key outcomes of the 2018 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit. He expressed hope that China and Lesotho will work hand in hand to create a high-quality project and set a new benchmark for bilateral cooperation.

The first phase of the Mafeteng Photovoltaic Power Station project commenced in December 2020, was completed in April 2023, and held its completion ceremony in June of the same year.

According to the project contractor, upon completion, the Mafeteng Photovoltaic Power Station is expected to generate approximately 95 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. The project will also create over 1,000 local jobs and help train photovoltaic technology professionals in Lesotho.