Hydroelectric
Hydroelectric Potential of the DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo possesses the most significant hydroelectric potential in Africa and one of the most substantial worldwide, estimated at over 100,000 MW. This exceptional resource represents approximately 13% of the global hydroelectric potential and could theoretically power the entire African continent. However, less than 3% of this potential is currently being utilized.
The DRC Energy & Mining Investment Forum 2026 offers a unique platform to showcase investment opportunities in this strategic sector and establish partnerships with investors, equipment suppliers, and international financial institutions.
The Grand Inga Project
A Global Energy Opportunity
The Inga hydroelectric complex, located on the Congo River, represents the world’s largest hydroelectric project with a potential of 44,000 MW. This flagship project could transform not only the energy landscape of the DRC but also that of the entire African continent.
Critical and Strategic Minerals
Inga I and II (existing)
- Installed capacity: 1,775 MW
- Currently undergoing rehabilitation to restore full capacity
Inga III
- Planned capacity: 4,800 MW
- Estimated investment: USD 14 billion
- Status: Advanced development phase, seeking financial and technical partners
Grand Inga (later phases)
- Total capacity: up to 44,000 MW
- Progressive development in multiple phases
- Export potential to North Africa, Southern Africa, and potentially Europe
Strategic Advantages
- Competitive production cost: Estimated between USD 0.03 and 0.05/kWh
- Clean and renewable energy: Low carbon footprint compared to thermal alternatives
- Production stability: Not subject to fossil fuel price fluctuations
- Exceptional lifespan: Over 100 years with proper maintenance
- Regional integration potential: Ability to supply regional energy pools
Major Hydroelectric Sites
Beyond the Inga complex, the DRC has numerous other high-potential hydroelectric sites distributed throughout the territory:
Congo Basin
Busanga Site (Haut-Katanga)
- Potential: 240 MW
- Currently undergoing rehabilitation to restore full capacity
Nzilo Site (Lualaba)
- Extension potential: 120 MW
- Status: Existing plant with expansion potential
Eastern Region
Ruzizi Complex (South Kivu)
- Ruzizi III: 147 MW (regional project DRC-Rwanda-Burundi)
- Ruzizi IV: 287 MW (planning phase)
- Status: Ruzizi III in advanced development phase
Sombwe Site (Tanganyika)
- Potential: 180 MW
- Status: Completed feasibility studies
Western and Central Regions
Kakobola Site (Kwilu)
- Capacity: 10.5 MW
- Status: Operational since 2020
Zongo II Site (Kongo Central)
- Capacity: 150 MW
- Status: Operational
Investment Opportunities by Scale
Diverse Options for Different Investor Profiles
Large Projects (>500 MW)
- Development of new Inga phases
- Regional interconnection projects for electricity export
- Transmission infrastructure associated with large hydroelectric projects
Medium-Sized Projects (50-500 MW)
- Provincial hydroelectric plants to supply industrial and mining hubs
- Rehabilitation and extension of existing plants
- Regional hydroelectric projects in partnership with neighboring countries
Small Projects and Micro-Plants (<50 MW)
- Micro-plants for rural electrification and isolated areas
- Run-of-river hydroelectric projects for local communities
- Hybrid solutions combining hydroelectricity with other renewable sources
Regulatory and Incentive Framework
Electricity Law of 2014
- Liberalization of the electricity sector
- Opening to private investment in generation, transmission, and distribution
- Creation of an independent regulatory authority
Incentives for Investors
- Tax exemptions for imported equipment intended for energy projects
- Government guarantees available for strategic projects
- Possibility of public-private partnerships (PPP)
- Support from the African Development Bank and other international financial institutions
Regional Export Potential
The DRC’s central geographic position allows it to consider electricity exports to several regional markets:
- Central African Power Pool (CAPP)
- Southern African Power Pool (SAPP)
- Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP)
- North-South Corridor connecting Egypt to South Africa
Studies show that electricity exports could generate more than USD 4 billion in annual revenue for the DRC at full capacity.
Grid Infrastructure Development
Major Transmission Projects
- Inga-Kolwezi Line: Reinforcement of the existing line to supply the mining belt
- Western Corridor Project: Connection to Southern African countries
- Northeast Interconnection: Link with Great Lakes countries and East Africa
Grid Modernization
- Deployment of smart grid technologies
- Demand management and energy storage systems
- Strengthening grid resilience to climate change
Environmental and Social Considerations
Sustainable Approach
- Rigorous environmental and social impact studies
- Environmental and social management plans compliant with international standards
- Engagement with local communities and community development programs
Environmental Benefits
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
- Alternative to widely used polluting diesel generators
- Contribution to national and international climate objectives
EXIM Bank Financing Opportunities
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM Bank), which will be represented at the DRC Energy & Mining Investment Forum 2025, offers preferential financing solutions for the acquisition of American equipment for the hydroelectric sector:
Eligible Equipment
- Hydroelectric turbines and generators
- Control and automation systems
- Substation and transmission equipment
- Environmental protection systems
- Smart grid management technologies
EXIM Bank Financing Advantages
- Preferential interest rates
- Extended repayment periods adapted to hydroelectric projects
- Technical assistance for project implementation
- U.S. government guarantees
Conclusion
The DRC’s hydroelectric potential represents an exceptional opportunity for investors, equipment suppliers, and financial institutions. The development of this strategic sector would not only meet the growing energy needs of the country and the region but also position the DRC as a major player in the global energy transition.
The DRC Energy & Mining Investment Forum 2025 offers a unique platform to explore these opportunities, establish strategic partnerships, and contribute to the sustainable development of the DRC and Africa.