Finnish-based renewable energy firm Nacart has been awarded a contract to design, construct and install a US$200 million hybrid power plant at Shangombo sugar plantation in the Western province.
The PADIC sponsored project is expected to produce over 800,000 tonnes of sugar per annum.
According to Nocart Chief Executive Officer, Vesa Korhonen, the first phase of the project consists of 30 to 40 megawatts (MW) solar, diesel plants.
On completion, the power plant will have a total production capacity of 100MW.
“With these plants, we can produce enough electricity for a 30,000 hectare sugar plantation and for the needs of modern sugar production facilities…,” Korhonen said.
Nocart country representative Sid Kabaso the plant will be developed over the next two to four years for total value of over US$200 million.
Kabaso said the company’s projects utilise solar, wind and bio-energy, among other sources to produce high quality electricity.
Installed with proprietary power management units (PMU), Nocart power plants utilise technology which controls energy production, storage and distribution of electricity.
Korhonen said Nocart focuses on bringing distributed, renewable-based energy solutions to people with limited or no access to quality electricity.
“We operate in those geographic markets in which the growth potential is great and market nearly untouched.
“The electrification of rural areas outside the national grids is one of the business opportunities Nocart is recognised for.”
He said the company uses a combination of cutting-edge technology and local resources including human resource.
“ Nocart improves the quality of life and environment in the markets we operate in,” Korhonen.
