Norton Rose Fulbright advises ESI on rural electrification project in Democratic Republic of Congo

Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright advised ESI S.p.A. (ESI), in the drafting and negotiation of a contract for the construction of a mini-grid photovoltaic plant in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. ESI is an Italian EPC contractor and system integrator in the renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors active in Italy and internationally, listed on AIM Italia.

The contract has been executed with AVSI Foundation, a non-profit organization which realizes projects for cooperation, development and humanitarian aid in 33 countries. It regards the realization of an off-grid plant integrated with a photovoltaic plant, a mini-hydroelectric plant and batteries to be located on the island of Idjwi. The plant aims to provide electricity to the villages of Kashara and Kimomo through an off-grid system. AVSI Foundation and ESI have been collaborating for a long time to facilitate access to electricity and encourage the economic and social growth of the village communities on the island of Idjwi.

The project includes the energy production system and the distribution line, which will allow 400 private users and 18 businesses to have access for the first time to electrical services, ensuring a constant and reliable power supply.

Luigi Costa, Milan based partner who led on the deal, commented: “We are pleased to have advised ESI in the realization of an off-grid project which, using the renewable resources available in Congo, will contribute to the economic and social development of the villages of Kashara and Kimomo and to the rural electrification of Idjwi island”.

The Milan team also included counsel Ginevra Biadico.