• Congo launched technical studies for the 510-MW Kitéké hydropower project near Brazzaville.

• Authorities plan to double national power capacity to 1,500 MW by 2030 with a focus on renewables.

• Congo raised electricity access to 59% in 2025 from 49% in 2024.

The government of the Republic of the Congo launched technical studies for the Kitéké hydropower project on the Loufoulakari River in the Pool department, about 35 kilometers southeast of Brazzaville. The project targets an installed capacity of about 510 megawatts, according to information reported on January 29 by ADIAC-Congo.

The technical studies assess project feasibility, infrastructure design, and equipment selection. The studies also cover environmental and social impact assessments. In addition, the studies aim to define grid-connection arrangements for the future power plant.

Authorities marked this milestone on January 28 during an official workshop held in Brazzaville. Émile Ouosso, Minister of Energy and Hydraulics, attended the event alongside representatives of companies involved in the project.

Among them, a consortium formed by Lincoln and China Energy participates in the technical study phase. The two companies said they intend to eventually handle engineering, equipment procurement, construction, and parts of the project financing.

At this stage, authorities disclosed no official estimate for total investment costs. According to the announced timetable, authorities expect construction to start around July–August 2027, subject to the completion of the studies.

During the Congo Energy & Investment Forum held in Brazzaville in March 2025, Congolese authorities said they plan to double national electricity generation capacity to 1,500 MW by 2030. Authorities said they will focus this expansion on renewable energy development.

Officials also presented a roadmap that includes several projects designed to boost electricity production and improve access rates. Émile Ouosso said electricity access increased to 59% in 2025 from 49% in 2024, according to statements reported in January 2026.

Separately, as part of power-sector reforms, the Republic of the Congo sought expertise from Senegal’s national electricity utility, Senelec. According to Agence Ecofin, authorities signed an agreement in February 2025 that assigns the Senegalese operator distribution, management, and maintenance missions for Congo’s power grid for a ten-year period.

This article was initially published in French by Abdel-Latif Boureima

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de BERRY QUENUM