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How Wind Power is Changing Lesotho’s Energy Future

A New Chapter in Lesotho’s Energy Story

For decades, Lesotho has relied heavily on imported electricity and fossil fuels to meet its national energy needs. While the country boasts natural beauty and highland wind corridors, much of its energy has come from beyond its borders leaving Lesotho vulnerable to supply disruptions and rising costs. Today, thanks to innovative renewable energy projects led by Hirundo Energy, that story is beginning to change.

Harnessing the Wind at Home

Hirundo Energy is developing two utility-scale wind farms that will reshape the country’s energy landscape: the Mohale’s Hoek Wind Farm and the Masite Nek Wind Farm. These projects aren’t just ambitious they’re transformative.

  • The Mohale’s Hoek Wind Farm will feature 12 wind turbines, each capable of producing 5 megawatts (MW) of power. Once completed, the farm will generate approximately 140 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean electricity annually enough to power 15% of Lesotho’s total electricity demand.

  • The Masite Nek Wind Farm, located near Ha ‘Majane, will add another 8 turbines with capacities ranging from 3 to 6 MW each, producing about 85 GWh annually around 10% of national consumption.

Together, these two projects are expected to meet a quarter of Lesotho’s electricity needs with homegrown renewable energy.

More Than Just Megawatts

While the energy output is impressive, Hirundo’s vision goes beyond power generation. These wind farms are part of a broader strategy to empower communities, create jobs, and protect the environment.

Community Land Leasing
Rather than displacing communities, Hirundo works with them leasing land directly from local residents. This model provides landowners with ongoing income, fostering economic inclusion and a sense of ownership in the national energy transition.

Job Creation and Skills Development
From turbine assembly to electrical maintenance, these projects require a trained local workforce. Hirundo offers hands-on training and employment opportunities, helping build a clean energy talent pipeline in Lesotho.

Environmental Stewardship
Every wind project is carefully assessed to protect biodiversity and minimize land impact. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), wildlife monitoring, and noise mitigation measures are part of the process ensuring the wind farms are both clean and responsible.

Energy Security and Economic Growth

With growing electricity demand and climate change pressures, Lesotho faces urgent energy challenges. Wind power offers a scalable, low-carbon solution that strengthens energy security, reduces import reliance, and positions the country as a regional leader in renewable energy.

Moreover, a locally powered grid means more stable prices, fewer outages, and a foundation for economic growth. Industries, schools, health clinics, and homes all stand to benefit.

What’s Next?

As construction progresses, Hirundo is also rolling out EV charging stations, exploring battery storage, and working with innovators like Pheha Plastic to expand clean energy into transport and manufacturing.

These efforts reflect a simple belief: renewable energy should be accessible, local, and transformative.

Join the Movement

Hirundo Energy invites everyone communities, investors, policymakers, and future workers to be part of this exciting chapter in Lesotho’s energy journey. Together, we can build a nation powered by wind, sustained by people, and protected for generations to come.

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