Zambia energy sector expansion and reforms

Zambia is significantly expanding its electricity generation capacity and diversifying its energy mix through large-scale solar projects and structural reforms. Solar photovoltaic capacity recently surpassed 1 GW, rising from 178 MW in 2024 to 1,027 MW in October 2026. This growth includes developments such as the 100 MW Maamba solar park and the doubling of the Chisamba solar park capacity.

Under its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), the country aims to reach a total capacity of approximately 10,013 MW by 2030 and over 23,000 MW by 2050. To support this, the government is implementing reforms to encourage private sector participation, including the Electricity Open Access Regulations and a Net Metering Programme. These efforts seek to reduce the nation’s heavy reliance on hydropower, which currently accounts for nearly 80 percent of generation.

Despite this progress, the Ministry of Energy has identified substantial financial challenges. Meeting the IRP targets will require an estimated $11.6 billion by 2030 and $31 billion by 2050. Officials noted that current annual investment levels are insufficient to meet the required $1.07 billion annual funding needed for the plan.