Lucara Botswana Issues EOI for Solar PV Plant Project
WORKS CONTRACT FOR THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE 30MWp SOLAR PV PLANT AT LUCARA BOTSWANA
LUCBOTS/PROC/TENDERS/2026/054BackgroundLucara Botswana is a diamond mining company operating the Karowe Mine, located approximately 20 km from Letlhakane. The Corporate and Sales office is based in Gaborone at the Diamond Technology Park, Block 8 Industrial. The company is 100% owned by Lucara Diamond Corp, a Canadian company listed on the TSX, Swedish Stock Exchange, and the Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE). Karowe Mine is a state-of-the-art large-scale operation, fully commissioned in Q2 2012, with significant tonnage and throughput upside. It is one of the world’s leading producers of large, high-quality Type IIA diamonds exceeding 10.8 carats. Lucara Botswana is currently implementing an underground expansion project to extend the mine’s life to 2040.IntroductionLucara Botswana invites Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from suitably qualified and experienced Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and renewable energy developers for the development of a 30 MWp Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Plant to supply electricity to Karowe Mine. The successful developer will be responsible for the financing, construction, operation, and maintenance of the facility under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The mine currently relies on conventional grid electricity and/or diesel generation.ObjectivesThe purpose of this project is to develop a commercially viable Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) that provides the mine with a more cost-competitive, reliable, and sustainable electricity supply. Through this initiative, Lucara Botswana seeks to:
- Reduce exposure to rising electricity tariffs and energy price volatility.
- Improve long-term energy cost predictability and operational efficiency.
- Enhance energy security and supply reliability.
- Support the mine’s ESG and decarbonization commitments.
- Explore renewable energy solutions capable of delivering long-term commercial value and sustainability benefits.
Project OverviewIn line with the company’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy, Lucara Botswana intends to develop a 30 MWp Solar PV Plant on approximately 20–30 hectares of available land through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) arrangement. The project may be implemented in two phases:
(i) 20 MWp Solar PV (grid-tied)
(ii) Additional 10 MWp Solar PV integrated with a 20 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The expected Commercial Operation Date (COD) is 2027/2028. The plant will operate in a grid-tied/hybrid configuration.Required Information for EOI SubmissionInterested bidders are required to submit the following documentation:
- Company profile (In case of Joint Ventures, provide signed JV agreements commissioned by a Commissioner of Oaths).
- CIPA Registration documents and Valid Tax Clearance.
- Relevant project experience and proven track record in designing, financing, constructing, owning, and operating utility-scale solar PV projects above 20 MW (include project references).
- Financial strength and capability to undertake projects of similar size (submit audited financial statements for the last three years and funding strategy).
- Proposed development execution approach and methodology.
- Organizational structure and key personnel (with relevant professional certifications, e.g., ECSA, ERB, etc.).
- Local content and community development commitments.
- Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality (HSEQ) performance records.
Shortlisting OutcomeThe purpose of this EOI is to identify capable respondents with the requisite experience, financial strength, and capacity. Shortlisted companies will be invited to participate in the subsequent Request for Proposal (RFP) or formal tender process. Lucara Botswana reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to accept or reject any EOI, shortlist or not shortlist any respondent, and to amend, suspend, or cancel the process without incurring any obligation or liability.EOI Submission RequirementsTenderers must submit one original and one copy clearly marked:
“EOI WORKS CONTRACT FOR THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE 30MWp SOLAR PV PLANT AT LUCARA BOTSWANA; LUCBOTS/PROC/TENDERS/2026/054”Submission Address:
The Procurement Tender Box
Lucara Botswana, Karowe Diamond Mine
Letlhakane Office, Raffles Complex
Mokgobelele Ward, Plot 12602, Steinberg Road Closing Date:
10th July 2026 at 12:30 pm
(Late submissions will not be considered.)Enquiries:
All enquiries must be directed by email to the Strategic Sourcing & Contract Specialist:
Kmotsumi@lucarabotswana.co.bw (mailto:Kmotsumi@lucarabotswana.co.bw) Deadline for Enquiries: Friday, 3rd July 2026