Q: The EU has committed 5.5 million to support Botswanas green transition. Can you explain how these funds will be used?
A: The 5.5 million provided by the European Union will assist Botswana in transitioning to cleaner energy by focusing on enhancing its electricity mix. Our goal is to help the country achieve, and potentially surpass, its target of generating over 30% of its electricity from renewable sources, primarily solar, by 2030.
Q: How will the EU support Botswana in achieving a balanced energy mix between renewables and non-renewables?
A: We will offer international technical assistance to key entities such as BERA (the regulator), Botswana Power Corporation (BPC), the Department of Energy, and other relevant institutions. This support aims to improve the regulatory environment and boost the capacity of these organizations to enhance energy efficiency and increase renewable energy generation through collaborations with independent power producers, among others.
Q: Botswana has significant coal reserves and continues to attract investment in this sector. What is the EUs stance on fossil fuels?
A: The EU, in line with the consensus reached at COP28 by 133 countries, advocates for accelerating the global transition away from fossil fuels, including a phase-down of unabated coal power. Opening new coal-fired power plants contradicts efforts to limit global warming to 1.5C. The EU is committed to the European Green Deal, aiming to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Externally, we have pledged to allocate at least 30% of our primary funding instrument, Global Europe, to climate-related activities. The impacts of climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels, are increasingly severe, affecting regions like Southern Africa, which is experiencing record high temperatures and severe drought. Expanding clean energy in Botswana and the SADC region could yield significant benefits, including job creation and energy export opportunities, potentially driving Africas growth.
Q: Will the EU support investments in non-renewable energy in Botswana?
A: The EU recognizes that the energy sector requires significant investment for the future. Given the current financing gap for renewable energy, we focus on supporting these investments. For example, the European Investment Bank has ceased funding traditional fossil fuel projects and is now prioritizing climate change adaptation. Through the 150 billion Global Gateway Initiative, we are investing in various clean energy projects in Africa, including hydropower and green hydrogen. We are also committed to the 1 billion Initiative on Climate Adaptation and Resilience in Africa, announced at COP27. Our goal is to support Botswana in developing its renewable energy sector, which holds potential for creating jobs and attracting investment from companies aiming for carbon neutrality.
Q: Does the EU frequently discuss its concerns regarding fossil fuel investments with the Botswana government?
A: The EU engages openly with friends and partners about fossil fuel concerns, whether in bilateral discussions or international forums like COP conferences. Ensuring energy security, domestic energy production, and affordable electricity are crucial for any country. A gradual transition to renewables supports these goals. We are dedicated to helping Botswana with its green transition, leveraging its excellent conditions for solar energy, which is cleaner, more job-creating, and more attractive for business compared to fossil fuels.
Q: Apart from supporting the green transition, in what other areas is the EU assisting Botswana?
A: The EU supports Botswana in several areas beyond green transition, including transboundary water management in the Okavango region and conservation efforts in transfrontier areas like the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and KAZA. Economically, we aid Botswana in diversifying its economy, creating jobs, and boosting sectors such as ecotourism and export-oriented value chains. The EU also contributes to regional integration and funds various SADC programs that enhance trade competitiveness, investment environments, and regional value chains. Additionally, we support digital transformation in Botswana and the SADC region.
Q: How much has the EU allocated to these support initiatives?
A: Over the past three years, the EU has allocated more than 160 million to regional integration programs in Southern Africa, many of which benefit Botswana directly. Additionally, Botswana has a bilateral allocation of 16 million for the 2021-2024 period.
