The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is exploring the potential of its Inga hydropower site, which could transform the nation's energy landscape. Despite being one of the world's poorest countries, the DRC possesses significant natural resources, including minerals and vast hydropower potential. The World Bank Group acknowledges both the opportunities and challenges in developing Inga's capabilities to benefit the country sustainably.
The Inga site, located on the Congo River between Kinshasa and the Atlantic Ocean, boasts a hydropower potential of approximately 42,000 MW. Currently, two power plants operate at about 80% capacity. A new project, Inga 3, could generate between 3,000 and 11,000 MW depending on its design.
In 2014, the World Bank approved a $73.1-million IDA grant for technical assistance related to Inga-3 Basse Chute (BC) and other mid-size hydropower projects. However, it withdrew from this project in 2016 due to strategic differences with the government.
The current government envisions an integrated development program that extends beyond just energy generation. The World Bank Group supports this vision and is considering how best to assist in achieving these goals. This includes efforts under Mission 300 to connect more Africans to electricity by 2030.
"The appropriate development of Inga provides a practical pathway to realizing some of this great potential," states the World Bank Group's perspective on DRC's ambition to become a "climate solutions country."
The DRC government has requested assistance from the World Bank Group for developing Inga as part of its broader economic transformation strategy. The World Bank is discussing support programs with stakeholders focusing on local development opportunities and institutional strengthening.
"Decisions on World Bank financing will be taken by the World Bank’s Board of Directors," indicating that discussions are ongoing regarding future support phases.