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3 clusters · 7 sources · 21 days · First seen · Last updated

Zambia solar power expansion and energy investments

Overview

In late July 2026, Zambia inaugurated the 100 MW Chisamba II Solar Power Plant, a US$70 million project that doubled the Chisamba complex to 200 MW. Opened by President Hakainde Hichilema, the plant aims to reduce reliance on hydroelectric generation, which has been strained by recent droughts, and improve reliability for households, manufacturing, and mining. This expansion follows 2023 regulatory reforms that opened transmission and distribution networks to private producers.

By late July, officials reported that Zambia’s installed solar capacity had reached approximately 841 MW, accounting for about 18 % of the national generation mix. This growth is supported by various projects, including the 196 MW Itimpi plant, the 50 MW Mabumba plant, and a 500 MW solar project by EnerSynk Group that has secured key regulatory approvals. A net‑metering programme launched in July 2024 currently supplies over 30 MW of grid‑connected power.

In August 2026, the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) approved energy sector investments totaling approximately ZMW 18.4 billion ($971.5 million). These approvals include 23 licenses and 20 construction permits, covering 11 utility-scale solar projects and renewable energy equipment manufacturing. These investments are intended to address a growing electricity deficit caused by reduced hydropower generation and to support expanding industrial activities.

Entities

Zambia · Energy Regulation Board of Zambia · Zambia Sugar · Energy Regulation Board · Zambia Energy Ministry

Timeline

  1. 28 days ago

    [BUSINESS] 2 sources
    Zambia approves $971.5 million in energy sector investments

    Zambia’s Energy Regulation Board has approved $971.5 million in energy investments, including solar projects and petroleum infrastructure, to combat a national electricity deficit.

  2. about 2 months ago

    [BUSINESS] 3 sources
    Zambia's Solar Capacity Nears 1 GW Target as Projects and Reforms Accelerate

    Zambia’s solar capacity jumped to ~841 MW, now 18 % of generation, as reforms boost projects. EnerSynk won approvals for a 500 MW plant expected to earn $2.8‑$3.7 bn and cut CO₂ emissions.

  3. about 2 months ago

    [BUSINESS] 3 sources
    Zambia adds 100 MW solar plant to strengthen energy security

    Zambia inaugurated a 100 MW solar plant, bringing its Chisamba complex to 200 MW to boost grid resilience, while a September summit will address flexible procurement and financing for industrial energy users.

Sources

ecofinagency.com · fmdrc-zambia.com · riotimesonline.com · socialnews.xyz · solarquarter.com · solwezitoday.com · zambianeye.com

This summary has been updated 1 time: see revision history