THE Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is pursuing a colossal feat: the construction of the Grand Inga Dam, poised to become the world’s largest hydropower project. With an estimated cost of $80bn, this ambitious venture promises to generate a staggering 44,000 MW of electricity annually—more than double the capacity of China’s Three Gorges Dam. Located on the Congo River, the dam aims to not only address DRC’s chronic energy poverty but also position itself as the linchpin of Africa’s energy future.
The Congo River, the second-longest in Africa and second-largest globally by discharge, offers an ideal site for harnessing hydroelectric power. Stretching 4,700 km, it boasts immense water flow and a dramatic vertical drop, making it a prime candidate for energy generation. The project involves adding six new dams to the existing Inga 1 and Inga II installations, commissioned in 1972 and 1982 respectively.
Phased development: from Inga III to full realisation
The Grand Inga project is designed to be developed in six phases, with Inga III as the starting point. This phase alone will produce 4,800 MW of electricity and is divided into two sub-stages: low-head and high-head developments. Unlike conventional dam construction, Inga III will rely on an open-channel system, diverting approximately 6,000 cubic metres of water per second into a parallel valley without blocking the river entirely.
Each subsequent phase of the Grand Inga development hinges on securing funding and establishing markets for the generated electricity. Once complete, the combined output is expected to supply more than a third of Africa’s current electricity demand, offering a renewable solution to the continent’s energy challenges.
Economic and social impact
The potential benefits of the Grand Inga Dam are immense. The energy produced is expected to power industrial hubs, particularly the mining-rich Katanga region, and meet the needs of nations such as South Africa and Nigeria. It could also alleviate energy poverty for millions of Congolese, where a significant portion of the population lacks access to electricity.
Eric Monga, Vice President of the Congo Business Federation, underscores the transformative potential of even small-scale hydropower initiatives: ‘We have to do it, whether it’s Inga or elsewhere in the country. The economic benefits are undeniable.’
Local businesses anticipate an economic boost, while access to reliable electricity could significantly improve living standards and facilitate development in impoverished communities.
Challenges: funding, transparency, and prioritisation
Despite its potential, the Grand Inga project has faced prolonged delays, primarily due to funding uncertainties and governance concerns. Disputes between the former DRC government and the World Bank over transparency have stalled progress for over a decade. Activists have criticised the project for prioritising mining sector interests over nationwide electrification, with fears that energy distribution agreements may disproportionately favour corporate clients.
However, recent efforts by President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration aim to address these concerns. Talks with international stakeholders, including the World Bank, have been revived to ensure financing.
Regional collaboration and demand
The Grand Inga project has attracted significant regional and international interest. South Africa has formalised an agreement to purchase electricity from the dam, viewing it as a critical solution to its ongoing energy crisis. Energy Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson stressed the importance of planning ahead, saying: ‘We cannot wait until 2020 to realise we need power.’
Nigeria and other African nations have also expressed interest in the dam’s output, recognising its potential to catalyse industrial growth across the continent.
Environmental and local concerns
Despite its promise, the Grand Inga project has not escaped criticism. Environmental activists warn of the ecological impact on the Congo River basin, a biodiversity hotspot. Moreover, the displacement of local communities and the dam’s impact on fishing livelihoods have raised alarms.
Efforts to address these issues include consulting local communities and implementing sustainability measures. However, the scope and scale of the project demand greater attention to balancing development with ecological preservation.
Moving forward: a decade or more to realisation
Authorities estimate it could take another decade for the Grand Inga Dam to be fully operational. In the meantime, efforts are underway to upgrade existing facilities. For instance, Inga II’s Turbine 5 is undergoing refurbishment to enhance its output by 162 MW.
Kamoa Copper, SNEL (DRC’s national electricity provider), and international contractors are spearheading technical assessments and infrastructure upgrades. The goal is to integrate surplus energy into the national grid, improving access for ordinary Congolese citizens.
A beacon of hope or another missed opportunity?
The Grand Inga Dam represents an unparalleled opportunity to reshape Africa’s energy landscape. If realised, it could symbolise Africa’s ability to harness its natural resources for continental prosperity. However, the project’s success depends on overcoming significant financial, governance, and environmental challenges.
As activist Ben Munanga succinctly put it: ‘The national utility must serve the people, not just companies. This project must prioritise national development alongside industrial needs.’
The world will watch closely as the DRC navigates the complexities of executing one of history’s most ambitious energy projects. Whether the Grand Inga Dam becomes a beacon of sustainable energy or another stalled mega-project will define its legacy for generations to come.
