FQM Partners with ZESCO to Address Zambia’s Power Shortage
First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has partnered with ZESCO to alleviate pressure on the national grid by sourcing imported power.
As Zambia’s largest copper producer, FQM operates the Kansanshi and Trident mines in North-Western Province, playing a vital role in the country’s economic landscape.
FQM currently procures an average of 224,000 megawatt hours of electricity monthly from ZESCO.
However, with ZESCO recently invoking force majeure clauses in its power supply agreements with some mines, the need for supplementary power from external sources has become apparent.
To address this, FQM has engaged in negotiations with regional power traders to secure 20 percent of its power requirements from imported sources.
This initiative aims to ensure uninterrupted operations at FQM mines amid challenges in the local power generation capacity and extended load-shedding affecting mining companies.
Anthony Mukutuma, FQM Director – Zambia, emphasized the importance of sustaining mining operations for the country’s economy and prosperity.
He highlighted the company’s commitment to working with ZESCO to navigate through the current energy challenges, acknowledging that the cost of imported power may be higher but is necessary to maintain production plans for 2024 and 2025.
