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to supply up to 8 million kWh of renewable electricity and is part of Ardentec’s broader strategy to diversify its green energy sources. Delta Energy, a renewable energy provider under Delta Group, will supply hydropower generated from Shishui Creek in Taichung City, a tributary of the Dajia River. The facility uses run-of-river technology. Ardentec initially focused on solar
photovoltaics for its renewable energy needs and has installed solar systems for internal use. In 2024, renewable energy and green electricity certificates accounted for 10.4% of the company’s total electricity consumption. The company is aiming to increase this share as part of its commitment to the RE100 initiative, which calls for 100% renewable energy use by 2050. The collaboration with Delta Energy is
intended to improve power supply stability by combining different types of renewable energy, especially during times when solar power output is limited. Ardentec says this approach supports its operational sustainability goals and aligns with its “Biodiversity and No Deforestation Declaration” released in 2025. The company joined the RE100 initiative in 2023, becoming the first in Taiwan’s semiconductor testing industry to do so. In 2024, Ardentec also signed on to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to further align with global climate action goals. “Ardentec values sustainable business practices. Not only actively adopt low-carbon, environmentally friendly green energy and continuously diversify renewable energy structure to enhance green operational resilience and improve corporate competitiveness, but also hope to drive the industry value chain and promote the entire sector towards green, low- carbon development,” said Chief Sustainability Officer C.C. Rou.
Burundi Jiji plant inaugurated The government of Burundi has officially inaugurated the Jiji hydroelectric power plant, a major step in the country’s efforts to increase access to electricity and reduce dependence on imported energy. The event took place in Bururi province and was attended by President Évariste Ndayishimiye, along with national officials and representatives from development partners that co-financed the project. Jiji is the first of two hydroelectric plants being developed in the region, with the second, Mulembwe, set to become operational in the next few months. Once complete, the Jiji and Mulembwe hydroelectric plants will have a combined installed capacity of 49.5MWand are expected to produce 235GWh of electricity annually. This output is expected to supply power to 15,000 households, 7,000 businesses, and 1,700 industrial facilities across the country. The project cost a total of $320 million and was financed through a partnership between the government of Burundi and several
international institutions, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), the European Investment Bank (EIB), the World Bank (WB), and the European Union (EU). Pascal Yembiline, AfDB Country Manager in Burundi, said: “As a longstanding partner of Burundi, the African Development Bank is proud to have contributed to the implementation of this infrastructure project, which is fully in line with its strategic priorities, the Hi-5s. We are convinced that this flagship infrastructure will increase access to reliable and affordable energy and help create a sustainably prosperous Burundi.” Edward Claessen, Head of the EIB Regional Hub for East Africa, stated: “The fact that the Jiji and Mulembwe dam project is a renewable energy project, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, is particularly significant. Our financing for this project formed part of the European Union’s strategy to develop clean, sustainable infrastructure in Africa and is also aligned with decarbonisation efforts needed by companies to grow.” World Bank Representative in Burundi Hawa Cisse Wagué added: “The Jiji hydroelectric power plant and the lines and substations built as part of the project are not infrastructure like any other. This infrastructure helps ensure Burundi’s economic and social development.
It is a key driver to improve people’s access to energy as well as supporting industrialisation, job creation and economic growth.” EU Ambassador to Burundi Elisabetta
Pietrobon said: “Energy remains a central priority in development and thus in EU cooperation. This is why the European Union, its Member States and its institutions have supported this project from the very beginning, including funding for the various design and implementation phases, right up to the deployment of infrastructure and equipment.” The development partners also reiterated their support for Burundi’s goals, which include becoming an emerging economy by 2040 and developed country by 2060. The project has generated several hundred jobs since construction began, contributing to local economic growth and workforce development. Officials said the operational launch of the Jiji plant is expected to create more opportunities in the energy sector and related industries. Improved access to electricity is also expected to support sectors such as health, education, agribusiness, and information technology. Officials noted that the availability of reliable and affordable power could improve conditions for small and medium-sized enterprises and help attract more investment to the country.
www.waterpowermagazine.com | August 2025 | 7
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