The Zambian Government has taken a significant step toward expanding the country’s electricity generation capacity by signing Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contracts for the development of solar power plants in every constituency. The ambitious project falls under the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative (PCEI), a flagship programme designed to improve access to reliable and clean energy across the country. Once completed, the initiative will deliver a total of 312 megawatts of electricity to the national grid through the construction of 2 megawatt Solar Photovoltaic power plants in all 156 constituencies. The programme represents one of Zambia’s most extensive renewable energy investments and is expected to strengthen electricity supply while supporting national economic development. It also demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the country’s power challenges through sustainable energy solutions.
Speaking during the contract signing ceremony, Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Nicholas Phiri said the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative was approved by Cabinet in November 2025 as part of broader efforts to increase electricity generation. He explained that the programme was developed to address Zambia’s power deficit while improving energy security for communities across the country. Growing demand for electricity from households, businesses and industries has made increased power generation an important national priority. By investing in renewable energy infrastructure, the government aims to reduce pressure on existing electricity sources while expanding access to dependable power. The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to Zambia’s long-term energy strategy.
Under the programme, each of Zambia’s 156 constituencies will receive a 2 megawatt Solar Photovoltaic power plant. Collectively, these facilities will generate an additional 312 megawatts of electricity that will be integrated into the national grid. The decentralized approach ensures that communities throughout the country benefit directly from improved electricity infrastructure while supporting balanced national development. Increased generation capacity will help improve power availability in both urban and rural areas, reducing supply constraints that have affected economic activity in recent years. Reliable electricity is essential for supporting industries, expanding businesses and improving the quality of life for citizens.
Mr. Phiri said the project will be implemented through a Special Purpose Vehicle established specifically to oversee the successful delivery of the initiative. Several government institutions will collaborate to ensure smooth implementation, including the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, the Ministry of Energy and ZESCO Limited. ZESCO has been assigned the role of Project Manager and will be responsible for supervising implementation and ensuring technical standards are maintained throughout construction. This coordinated approach is intended to improve project management while promoting accountability and efficiency. Strong collaboration between government agencies will be essential to delivering the project within the planned timeframe.
The government has competitively selected five contractors to undertake the nationwide construction programme. According to Mr. Phiri, the total project cost is estimated at approximately K4.3 billion, reflecting the scale of the investment required to expand Zambia’s renewable energy infrastructure. Construction works are expected to be completed within 12 months from the date of site mobilisation. This timeline demonstrates the government’s intention to accelerate the delivery of much needed electricity generation capacity. Timely completion will enable communities and businesses to begin benefiting from improved electricity access as soon as possible.
Part of the funding for the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative will come through the Constituency Development Fund, highlighting the government’s commitment to using local development resources to support strategic national infrastructure. The integration of CDF funding into the project aligns community development with long-term investments that can stimulate local economies. Improved electricity supply has the potential to unlock new economic opportunities by supporting productive activities in every constituency. The project is expected to strengthen local development while creating infrastructure that benefits future generations. By combining national and local resources, the initiative seeks to maximize its impact across Zambia.
Beyond increasing electricity generation, the programme is expected to deliver wide-ranging economic and social benefits. Reliable power will support irrigated agriculture by providing farmers with dependable electricity for irrigation systems, helping increase agricultural productivity throughout the year. Small businesses and emerging enterprises are also expected to benefit from improved access to electricity, creating opportunities for expansion and job creation. Better electricity supply will enhance the delivery of essential public services in schools, healthcare facilities and government institutions. These improvements are expected to contribute to broader national development while strengthening local economies.
The initiative is also expected to provide financial benefits to local authorities through dividends generated by the programme. According to Mr. Phiri, these additional financial resources will strengthen the capacity of local councils to deliver services more effectively. Increased revenue can support investments in infrastructure, public services and community development projects that improve living standards. Strengthening the financial position of local authorities also promotes greater sustainability in service delivery. This aspect of the initiative ensures that the benefits extend beyond electricity generation to support long-term local governance and development.
Mr. Phiri urged the selected contractors to mobilize immediately and begin implementation without unnecessary delays. He also called on ZESCO to provide strong project oversight to ensure construction is completed according to schedule while meeting all required quality and safety standards. Effective supervision will be critical in maintaining construction quality across all project sites nationwide. The government has emphasized the importance of accountability, transparency and adherence to technical specifications throughout implementation. Successful execution of the project will depend on close cooperation between contractors, government institutions and project managers.
The Zambian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing the policy direction and administrative support necessary for the successful implementation of the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative. The signing of the EPC contracts marks an important milestone in the country’s efforts to expand access to reliable, affordable and clean energy. By delivering 312 megawatts of new solar generation capacity across all 156 constituencies, the programme is expected to strengthen the national electricity supply while promoting economic growth, agricultural development, job creation and improved public services. The initiative also reflects Zambia’s growing investment in renewable energy as part of its long-term development strategy. If implemented successfully, the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative will play a vital role in transforming the country’s energy sector and supporting sustainable development for communities nationwide.