The Ministry of Environment and Forestry conducted an environmental compliance audit at the Ramarothole Solar Power Plant in Mafeteng on 31 July 2026 as part of its regulatory oversight responsibilities for the implementation of Phase II of the project.
The audit follows the approval of the project’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) and the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP), which set out the environmental and social requirements that the Lesotho Electricity Generation Company (LEGCO) must implement throughout the construction and operation of the project.
The purpose of the visit was to assess LEGCO’s progress in implementing the commitments outlined in the ESIA and ESMP and to verify that all environmental and social safeguards are being effectively applied. The Ministry also evaluated the company’s compliance with national environmental legislation and licence conditions.
During the assessment, Ministry officials inspected various aspects of the project and reviewed measures undertaken to protect the environment, manage potential social impacts, and ensure that construction activities are carried out responsibly and sustainably.
One of the key messages from the audit was the importance of continued compliance with all ESIA and ESMP requirements. The Ministry emphasised that adherence to these commitments is essential to ensuring that Phase II of the Ramarothole Solar Power Plant is developed in an environmentally responsible manner while safeguarding the interests of surrounding communities.
LEGCO welcomed the audit as an important part of the project’s governance and reaffirmed its commitment to implementing all environmental and social obligations throughout the construction and operational phases of the project. The company will continue working closely with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry and other stakeholders to ensure that the project remains fully compliant with all applicable environmental standards and contributes to Lesotho’s sustainable energy development goals.
