Botswana Set to Host Solar-Powered AI Data Campus

Botswana is poised to become a focal point for an innovative data infrastructure project following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between U.S.-based ChillMine and Netherlands-based AAAS Energy. This initiative aims to establish a solar-powered data center campus near Palapye, designed to accommodate artificial intelligence workloads, hyperscale operations, and energy-intensive computing. The proposed facility will be integrated into the Leupane Energy Hub and Industrial Park, which is set to feature a 250 MW solar photovoltaic plant alongside a battery energy storage system with a capacity of approximately 100 MW / 400 MWh. Additionally, there are plans for optional natural gas generation capacity from third-party sources. ChillMine will serve as the primary client for the energy supplied by the hub, while AAAS Energy will oversee the development of the energy infrastructure. Located about 260 kilometers from Gaborone, the site lies along the corridor connecting Francistown and the capital. The collaboration is seen as a strategic move to align energy resources with data demands, with leaders from both companies expressing optimism about the potential of this partnership to create a high-performance data center that meets the needs of advanced technology users. While the memorandum does not specify investment amounts or construction timelines, it serves as a non-binding agreement indicating a mutual intent to explore feasibility and collaboration. The specific power requirements for the data center have yet to be determined. The Leupane Energy Hub has been in development by AAAS and Botala Energy, with the goal of providing a mix of renewable and gas-fired power to meet both local demand and export needs within the Southern African Power Pool. By situating the data center within this energy ecosystem, the project aims to enhance stability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness for computing resources. Botswana's digital infrastructure market is experiencing growth, with internet penetration exceeding 80%. However, much of the cloud and hyperscale capabilities are currently hosted outside the country, particularly in South Africa. The establishment of a large, environmentally sustainable data campus in Botswana could help reduce latency, lower cross-border hosting costs, and retain economic value amid increasing demand for digital services. This development aligns with a broader trend across Africa, where countries like Kenya and Nigeria are also investing in digital infrastructure, highlighting the competitive landscape for data sovereignty and localized capacity.

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