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Botswana generated less electricity in Q3 of 2025 less than Q3 2024

Powering Botswana: Electricity Trends in Q3 2025

Author

Boago Sephutho
January 13, 2026

Good morning, let’s get into it!

The third quarter of 2025 was a complex period for Botswana’s energy sector. While there is a long-term trend toward increased local generation capacity, significant operational challenges at major power stations led to a temporary reliance on regional imports. 1111

Key Performance Indicators

  • Index of Electricity Generation (IEG): The index stood at 144.3 for Q3 2025, a steep 38.6% decline compared to the same quarter in 2024. 2222

    +1

  • Total Local Generation: Botswana generated 606,511 MWH locally this quarter, down from 988,303 MWH a year ago. 3

  • Import Surge: To bridge the supply gap, electricity imports increased by 120.7% year-on-year, totaling 521,003 MWH. 4444

  • Distribution Levels: Despite generation challenges, the total electricity distributed was 1,127,513 MWH, a 3.7% increase from the previous quarter. 5

The Energy Mix: Where our Power Comes From

While coal remains the backbone of the nation's energy, Botswana is making visible strides in diversifying its sources. 66

Source

Contribution

Coal (Morupule A & B)

93.7% 7

Solar Power

5.4% 8

Diesel (Emergency Plants)

0.9% 9

Note: The contribution of solar power reflects the integration of new plants in Bobonong, Phakalane, Shakawe, and Mmadinare, showcasing the country's growing commitment to renewable energy. 10

Regional Partnerships

Botswana continues to leverage the Southern African Power Pool to maintain grid stability. Eskom (South Africa) remained the primary import source, accounting for 68.2% of total imports. 11111111Other key contributors included ZESCO (Zambia) at 13.6% and Nampower (Namibia) at 9.2%. 12

The Path to Self-Sufficiency

The primary goal for Botswana remains generating adequate electricity locally to meet domestic demand. 13In Q3 2025, local generation contributed 53.8% to total distribution, a drop from the 80.7% contribution seen in Q3 2024. 14This temporary dip highlights the necessity of ongoing efforts to strengthen national generation capacity and enhance system resilience.