Zambia’s President, Hakainde Hichilema, on Monday officially opened the country’s largest grid-connected solar power plant, a major step towards strengthening the nation’s electricity supply. The 100-megawatt solar facility, located in Chisamba, was built by PowerChina and is set to supply clean energy to the copper mining company First Quantum Minerals (FQM). This development is expected to ease Zambia’s heavy reliance on electricity imports from neighbouring South Africa and Mozambique, while also helping to address the country’s ongoing energy challenges.
The Chisamba solar power project is a significant addition to Zambia’s power infrastructure. It will supply First Quantum Minerals, one of the country’s biggest mining firms, with dedicated electricity. This arrangement will free up energy that would otherwise have been used by the mining company for local consumers, improving power availability across the country. Zambia’s electricity demand has been growing steadily due to the expansion of industries, and reliable power is crucial for economic growth and social development.
Zambia relies primarily on hydropower for its electricity generation. However, a severe drought over the past few years has led to low water levels in the country’s major dams, such as Kariba and Kafue Gorge. This situation has forced the state power utility, Zesco, to implement regular electricity rationing, affecting both households and businesses. President Hichilema acknowledged the urgent need to diversify the country’s power sources during the Chisamba project launch. He said the drought exposed the vulnerability of relying solely on hydropower and stressed the importance of developing alternative renewable energy sources to ensure stable power supply in the future.
Speaking at the launch event, President Hichilema said, “The drought has reminded us of the urgency to diversify our energy mix. The Chisamba solar plant is a positive step forward in reducing our dependence on hydropower and imported electricity.” The government’s push for renewable energy aligns with Zambia’s broader energy strategy to promote sustainability, reduce carbon emissions, and secure long-term energy security.
The Chisamba solar power plant is also expected to create jobs during its construction and operation phases, contributing to local economic development. The involvement of PowerChina, a global infrastructure and energy company, highlights Zambia’s commitment to partnering with international investors to modernize its energy sector.
Zesco officials confirmed that the plant will be integrated into the national grid, enhancing power stability and reducing outages in key areas. The company is also planning to increase the capacity at the Chisamba site by adding another 100 megawatts, although no official date has been set for this expansion.
The move to expand solar energy is part of a wider regional trend where African countries are investing in renewable energy projects to overcome electricity shortages and support industrial growth. Solar power is especially promising for Zambia because the country enjoys abundant sunlight throughout the year, making solar plants a reliable and sustainable energy source.
Energy experts have welcomed the Chisamba project, describing it as a milestone for Zambia’s power sector. According to them, increasing renewable energy capacity will help stabilize electricity prices, reduce power outages, and lower the country’s carbon footprint.
First Quantum Minerals has long been a key player in Zambia’s mining industry, which is a cornerstone of the national economy. Reliable power supply to such industries is critical, not just for production but also for attracting foreign investment. By securing electricity from solar sources, FQM and other large consumers can contribute to a greener, more sustainable energy future.
While challenges remain, including the need for more investments in infrastructure and energy storage, the Chisamba solar plant represents a positive development for Zambia’s energy landscape. The government continues to encourage both local and international partnerships to expand renewable energy projects across the country.
Zambia’s focus on clean energy also supports global efforts to combat climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The new solar plant aligns with international goals to increase renewable energy use and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
As Zambia moves forward with these projects, many hope that the country will achieve greater energy independence and economic stability, benefiting millions of its citizens.
