Rehabilitation of the 120 kV Nseke–RO Transmission Line in the Democratic Republic of Congo

 

The 120 kV Nseke–RO line connects the Nseke hydroelectric power station (260 MW) to the Kolwezi West substation and is an essential part of the energy supply in the south-east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Due to a long period of downtime, the availability of renewable energy for industrial users was greatly reduced, which affected mining activities in the region. SNEL and METALKOL commissioned the Sescon/Gruner consortium to completely renovate this infrastructure.

As part of the project, Gruner took on all the main engineering and management tasks:

• Preliminary studies and technical clarifications
• Preparation of tender documents
• Management of the procurement process
• Monitoring of works and quality control during execution

The work was carried out in close collaboration between Gruner and Sescon. Approximately one year elapsed between the start of the studies and commissioning. The construction phase itself was completed in eight months, which puts the total duration of the project well below that of similar renovations. This is 50% less than the usual average duration of equivalent projects.

Key technical points

• Optimisation of the layout and foundations of the pylons
• Improvements to conductor and guard cable designs
• Adaptations to enhance operational safety
• Efficient construction and logistics planning to reduce completion times

The renovated line has been fully operational since September 2025. This modernised infrastructure provides a stable supply of renewable energy for industrial facilities and significantly reduces the use of diesel generators. The project thus contributes to improving energy efficiency and strengthening economic development in the Kolwezi region.

The official inauguration took place on 7 October 2025, in the presence of the Minister of Water Resources and Electricity, Aimé Sakombi Molendo, highlighting the strategic importance of this infrastructure for regional development.

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