Zambia has taken a significant step towards enhancing its renewable energy portfolio with the commissioning of a 100 megawatt (MW) solar power plant in Chisamba District, Central Province. The inauguration ceremony, held earlier today, was attended by key government officials, energy sector stakeholders, and representatives from the private sector.
The new solar plant is one of the largest renewable energy projects in Zambia to date and is expected to play a crucial role in stabilizing the country’s electricity supply while reducing reliance on hydropower, which has been strained by recurring droughts in recent years.
Speaking at the commissioning event, Zambia’s Minister of Energy, Peter Kapala, highlighted the importance of the project in supporting the government’s goal of diversifying the national energy mix. Kapala described the plant as a milestone in Zambia’s journey towards sustainable energy development, emphasizing that it will help address the growing demand for electricity from both industrial and domestic users.
The Chisamba solar facility, developed in partnership with international and local investors, is projected to supply clean energy to thousands of households and businesses across Central Province and beyond. The project aligns with Zambia’s Vision 2030 and its commitment to increasing the share of renewable energy in the national grid.
Energy experts at the event noted that the plant would significantly reduce carbon emissions by displacing fossil-fuel-based power generation. According to preliminary estimates, the solar farm will cut greenhouse gas emissions by tens of thousands of metric tons annually.
The project has also contributed to local job creation, both during the construction phase and now in its operational phase, offering employment opportunities in maintenance and plant management for residents in Chisamba and surrounding areas.
The commissioning ceremony also saw representatives from the private sector reaffirm their commitment to partnering with the government in future energy projects, with several new renewable energy investments already being discussed for other regions in Zambia.
In his closing remarks, Minister Kapala called on more investors to explore Zambia’s untapped renewable energy potential. “Today marks a turning point. We are demonstrating to the world that Zambia is serious about clean energy, sustainability, and economic growth through infrastructure development,” he said.
With the Chisamba solar power plant now officially online, Zambia is expected to strengthen its energy security, reduce load shedding, and make meaningful progress towards its climate change mitigation goals.