CrossBoundary Energy Launches 233 MW Solar Project in DRC

On or around August 12, 2026, CrossBoundary Energy successfully commissioned a 233 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) project, complemented by 526 MWh of battery storage, at the Kamoa-Kakula copper mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This initiative marks a significant advancement in the region's energy landscape, providing a reliable source of renewable energy for the mine's operations. The project supports the mine's continued expansion while demonstrating the viability of solar power as a competitive alternative to traditional fossil fuel generation in heavy industry.

The solar project operates under a power purchase agreement (PPA) with the Kamoa Copper mine, ensuring a continuous supply of electricity for its operations. CrossBoundary Energy emphasizes that this project showcases how renewable baseload power can now compete effectively with fossil fuels, particularly as the costs for solar and battery technologies decline. The project was built using approximately 360,000 back contact modules from Chinese manufacturer Aiko, known for their high efficiency and performance in hot climates like the DRC.

Construction of the solar facility was completed within 16 months from the signing of the PPA, making it the fastest built large-scale solar and battery energy storage project in Africa. The rapid growth of solar deployments in the DRC is anticipated to increase by over 500% in 2026, driven by rising investments in energy capacity, especially in the mining sector. The DRC has historically faced challenges with low electricity access, but the expansion of mining operations has spurred interest in renewable energy solutions, including solar.

In addition to the solar project, the country has experienced significant growth in battery imports, often exceeding solar module imports by dollar value. This trend indicates a shift towards solar-plus-storage solutions, particularly for powering mining operations. Data from energy think tank Ember indicates that 19 countries, including the DRC, are poised for substantial growth in solar installations this year, reflecting a broader commitment to renewable energy in Africa.

Looking forward, CrossBoundary Energy aims to expand its renewable energy projects in the DRC and other regions, contributing to the global transition towards sustainable energy. The Kamoa-Kakula solar project represents a critical step in this direction, highlighting the potential for solar energy to play a significant role in powering industrial operations while addressing the region's energy challenges.