Projects

Photovoltaic Phase I (30MW no storage) Project 30MW Phase I started in 2021 and was completed and commissioned in 2023. The plant is divided into 8 arrays and each array has an inverter transformer station that gives output of 33kV. 33kV is transformed to 132kV and connected to LEC grid. On average, the monthly plant production is approximately 5MWh that is injected into LEC network.

Photovoltaic Phase II  (50MW) Project Phase I (30MW) project is at completion stage and preparations for Phase II(50MW with 8MWH battery storage) are at final stages for the project to start. Once project contract is signed, it will take 18 months for the project to be implemented.

Land degradation is generally rife in Lesotho, in particular more so at Ramarothole Solar plant where soil was disturbed by construction activities coupled with heavy rains. LEGCO has embarked on three-year soil conservation project through the support of the Government of Lesotho. The project aims to combat the emergence of gullies within and around generation facilities by building appropriate soil conservation structures.

Exciting Progress at Ha-Ramarothole Solar Power Plant: Community Efforts to Protect and Revitalize We are thrilled to share some exciting updates regarding the ongoing efforts to protect and revitalize the Ha-Ramarothole Solar Power Plant. Over the past few months, the community in Likhoele, alongside dedicated partners, has come together with incredible dedication and passion. Their collective efforts are crucial in enhancing the resilience of the solar plant against environmental challenges, particularly those stemming from degradation. As many of you know, the Ha-Ramarothole Solar Power Plant plays a vital role in providing sustainable energy to our community and beyond. However, like many renewable energy sites, it faces various environmental challenges that can compromise its functionality and longevity. To combat these issues, Lesotho Electricity Generation Compony (LEGCO) In collaboration with the community has embarked on several key initiatives aimed at protecting this essential resource. Key Initiatives in Action: We are proud to report real progress on the implementation of several critical measures designed to enhance the resilience of the solar plant: Diversion Furrow: One of our primary strategies involves the construction of diversion furrows. These channels are designed to redirect runoff from elevated areas, spreading water over the surrounding landscape. This approach not only helps to manage excess water but also facilitates infiltration into the soil, ultimately supporting the broader ecosystem. Gully Head Stabilization: Another significant initiative is the stabilization of gully heads. Using stepped stones arranged in a semi-circular pattern, we are effectively stabilizing areas where erosion has been problematic. This method prevents the headward extension of gullies, which can lead to more severe land degradation and adversely affect the solar plant’s infrastructure. Silt Raps: To further control erosion within the gullies, we have implemented silt raps. These stone lines are strategically placed across gullies to channel water flow and control erosion. By allowing soil to settle behind these barriers while permitting water to pass through, we are fostering a healthier landscape that supports both the solar plant and the surrounding environment. Community Commitment A huge THANK YOU to everyone who has contributed to these initiatives! Your commitment and hard work are making a real difference. The collaboration among community members, local organizations, and environmental specialists has been inspirational, showcasing what can be achieved when we unite for a common cause. We invite everyone to continue supporting these efforts as we strive to create a more sustainable future. Together, we can ensure that the Ha-Ramarothole Solar Power Plant thrives, providing clean energy for generations to come while protecting our invaluable natural resources. Stay tuned for more updates as we progress further in our mission to safeguard this vital solar power plant! Your involvement is key to our success, and we look forward to sharing more accomplishments with you.

The Ministry of Energy, in collaboration with Lesotho Electricity Generation Company (LEGCO), and with support from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry and the Department of Water, is embarking upon the issues of soil erosion at  Ramarothole Solar Generation Plant in Mafeteng district. The soil conservation project utilizes the innovative “FATO-FATO” catchment approach, focusing on rehabilitating degraded lands within the solar plant. Residents from eight surrounding villages, including Ha Ramarothole, Ha Rankapu, Ha Raliemere, Ha Mahali, Qobete, Ha Lempetje, Ha Sebusi, and Makeneng, actively participate as laborers. The project aims to reduce poverty and enhance living standards through job creation while providing education about the local infrastructure. Overall, it signifies a collaborative effort to address environmental challenges and improve the well-being of the communities involved.

The Project is one of the projects under the Forum for China-Africa Corporation (FOCAC) and offers an opportunity to highlight how solar energy can be used to deliver reliable access to affordable electricity using modern renewable energy sources. A Chinese based contractor SINOMA-TBEA Consortium has been engaged to construct the 30MW solar project. The project is under the direct supervision of Lesotho Electricity Generation Company (LEGCO). Project Financing Phase I (30MW) of the project is financed by a soft loan from EXIM Bank of China with total contribution of USD 70.188 million.  Lesotho Government Contribution to this project is estimated at M220 million which will cover the costs of land compensations valued around M57 million, Tax obligations as well as operating costs of Lesotho Electricity Generation Company (LEGCO). Project Cost Breakdown SUMMARY (Chinese CNY) 1 Photovoltaic Power Installation (30MW) 61.44% 295,826,564 2 Extension of Ramarothole Site Substation (132Kv) 8.03% 38,663,530 3 Ramarothole-Mazenod Transmission Line (55km) 23.60% 113,631,297 4 Mazenod Substation Extension 2.11% 10,159,408 5 Operation and Maintenance (3 years) 4.82% 23,207,748 Total 100.00% 481,488,548   70MW Solar Facility at Ramarothole The government is implementing 70MW solar electricity generation project at Ramarothole in Mafeteng. The project is financed through a soft loan from EXIM Bank of China, as well as Lesotho’s in-kind contribution. The Project will provide reliable access to modern renewable energy sources which will be connected to the grid. The Project offers an opportunity to highlight how solar energy can be used to deliver high-quality electricity services quickly and affordably. A contractor (SINOMA-TBEA Consortium) has been engaged to oversee project implementation. The project will be under the direct supervision of Lesotho Electricity Generation Company (LEGCO). The 70MW Ramarothole solar power project is planned to be implemented and built in two phases: Phase I: 30MWp with construction period of 18 months and Phase II: 40MWp to be completed in 2030. The country is currently implementing Phase I of the project which is envisaged to be completed in 2023. Through Phase I of the project a 30MW solar generation facility will be installed, 132 kV electricity sub-station will be erected and 55km transmission line will be developed transmitting electricity from Ha Ramarothole to Mazenod or Ha Mofoka where the electricity will be integrated into the national grid for distribution. Phase II will be implemented immediately upon successful completion of Phase I. Project Launch The Project was officially launched on the 16th December 2020 by the Right Honourable, The Prime Minister, Dr Moeletsi Majoro.   Project Area The 70MW project production areas will occupy a total area of 1,700,000 m2 and this covers 64% of the 2,663,569 m2 of the total demarcated project land area. Location: Ha-Ramarothole, Mafeteng, The geographical coordinates: 8°S and 27.3°E Site Elevation: 1,704m-1,760m Average annual solar irradiation: 2111.1kWh/m2 Generating capacity: 1,498,521MWh for 25 years Phase I (30MW): covers area of 469,765m2 Phase I Construction period: 18 months Phased II estimated completion date: 2030