The government has commissioned a 100-kilowatt solar backup power system at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development in Lusaka as part of efforts to address power supply disruptions caused by Zesco’s load management program.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Thursday, Infrastructure Minister Charles Milupi emphasized that the project was implemented to ensure uninterrupted operations at the ministry. He explained that the system would provide reliable power supply, especially in light of the current electricity shortages resulting from last season’s drought.
“The solar backup power system has been installed as a short-term measure to address power supply disruptions to the ministry building in view of the implementation of load management by Zesco, which has been necessitated by the drought experienced last rainy season,” Mr. Milupi stated.
He further highlighted that the project aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive issued in May 2024, which called for all public institutions, including schools and hospitals, to adopt alternative energy sources to mitigate the impact of power shortages.
The newly installed system is expected to enhance efficiency within the ministry by ensuring that critical operations are not affected by load shedding. The move also underscores the government’s commitment to promoting renewable energy solutions to enhance energy security across the country.
As Zambia continues to experience electricity challenges, the government has been encouraging institutions and businesses to explore solar energy and other renewable alternatives to reduce dependence on hydroelectric power. The commissioning of the solar backup system at the Ministry of Infrastructure marks a step in this direction and sets an example for other government agencies to follow.