The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) has awarded Mkhulu Electro Distribution Projects the contract for construction of a 132 kV power line from Matsoku to Polihali in Lesotho.
As per the agreement, Mkhulu EDP is expected to construct a new 132 kV line between the existing Lesotho Electricity Company (LEC) transmission network in the Matsoku Valley and the Polihali Dam construction site.
The contractor is also supposed to upgrade the existing LEC lines from Ha Lejone to Matsoku, and Maputsoe to Katse. The upgrade includes installation of insulation and shielding earth conductors. Additionally, Mkhulu EDP will undertake installation of optical ground wire (fiber) communication line from Maputsoe to Katse and Polihali. This line is planned to enhance communication in the project area.
The project is an essential component of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase-II whose implementation commenced in September 2018 with a two-year execution timeframe.
Phase-II of Lesotho Highlands Water Project was inspired by successful completion of Phase-I in 2003. Phase-II is expected to increase the current water supply rate of 780 million cu mtr per annum to more than 1,270 million cu mtr within the same period.
Furthermore, it will intensify the quantity of electricity generated in Lesotho and is an auxiliary step in the process of securing an independent electricity source for the region.