The Mozambique Energy Fund (FUNAE) has just launched a call for expressions of interest for the recruitment of consultants. The consultants will be required to prepare feasibility studies and project outlines for 11 photovoltaic mini-grids. Tenderers have until May 19, 2020 to submit their proposals.
The government of Mozambique is increasing the number of electrification projects in the country. Following the call for tenders launched in March 2020 for the construction of five solar mini-hybrid grids in the provinces of Zambézie and Nampula, another project for 11 photovoltaic mini-grids is in the pipeline. In this context, the Mozambican Energy Fund (FUNAE) launched a call for proposals on the 23rd of April 2020 to benefit from the collaboration of consultants. The expected consultancy services include feasibility studies, preparation of tender documents and technical assistance during the call for tenders. Consultants have until May 19, 2020 to submit their applications.
According to energy fund, the feasibility studies will be supported by the World Bank’s “Energy for All” programme, which is administered in Mozambique by FUNAE and the state-owned Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM).
The solar mini-grids will be developed as public-private partnerships by independent power producers. Once commissioned, all electricity consumers powered by these facilities will become EDM customers.
The off-grid component will focus on supporting the electrification of areas where the supply of electricity through mini-solar grids is the cheapest option from the country’s point of view. It concerns 11 villages in the provinces of Niassa, Nampula, Tete, Sofala and Manica in Mozambique.
Evaluation criteria for the consultants
Applicants must have qualifications required by FUNAE, including experience in rural distribution systems and costing, knowledge of renewable energy systems covering detailed engineering design, tendering, contracting and/or construction. Future consultants should also be familiar with international best practices in the design and deployment of mini-solar grids, conduct feasibility studies and similar assignments in the context of developing countries. They should also have proven expertise in renewable energy generation systems, in particular solar generation technologies and battery storage systems, and experience in electricity distribution transactions.
Consultants have the opportunity to partner with other companies to improve their qualifications. “However, they must clearly indicate whether the association takes the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultant. In the case of a joint venture, all joint venture partners will be responsible for the entire contract, if selected,” says FUNAE.
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Inès Magoum
