Isang Rakola grid extension, Botswana

13th October 2017 By: Sheila Barradas - Creamer Media Research Coordinator & Senior Deputy Editor

Isang Rakola grid extension, Botswana

Name of the Project
Isang Rakola grid extension.

Location
Botswana.

Client
Botswana Power Company (BPC).

Project Description
The project involves the construction of two parallel 220 kV lines of 80 km each from the existing Isang’s Ranch 400/220kV substation to a new 220/132 kV substation in Rakola lands.

The project includes a 132 kV line from Rakola to Gaphatshwa, where a 132/33/11 kV substation will be built.

Potential Job Creation
To date, the project has created employment for 250 citizens of varying skills, either through direct employment or subcontracting.

Value
Not stated.

Duration
The project is expected to be completed in April 2018.

Latest Developments
Construction on the two 220 kV lines started in October 2015, with the completion of conductor stringing activity accomplished in March 2017. 

The line contractor is now waiting for the substation contractor to complete all the relevant substation works to finish the 5% of outstanding lines work.

Construction works on the Rakola 220/132 kV substation started in September 2015 and are still in progress, owing to delays in processing visas and work permits for foreign workers, and heavy rains in February this year.

Detailed designs and environmental- and social-impact assessment for the 132 kV line and substation are ongoing. 

Key Contracts and Suppliers
Kalpataru Power Transmission (two 220 kV lines, a 132 kV line and a substation), Consolidated Power Projects (220/132 kV substation).

On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
BPC, email contactcentre@bpc.bw.