Investors Urged to Boost Electricity Generation in Zambia
The Ministry of Energy has called on investors to prioritize sustainable electricity generation to address Zambia’s power deficit, which is exacerbated by climate-induced low water levels.
Speaking in Lusaka, Permanent Secretary (PS) Peter Mumba emphasized the government’s support for energy sector investments.
This came during a meeting with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which plans to construct two solar plants in Nalolo and Lukulu districts in Western Province, capable of producing 600 megawatts.
PS Mumba revealed that Zambia’s current electricity production stands at 1,030 megawatts against a national demand of over 2,500 megawatts. Maamba Coal Mine currently contributes 300 megawatts to the grid, with an additional 300 megawatts expected by 2027 upon the completion of an ongoing project.
Welcoming CCECC’s solar investment, Mr. Mumba also praised the company’s interest in exploring coal energy. He described their initiative as critical to reducing Zambia’s energy gap.
CCECC Managing Director Jacques Lias highlighted the company’s history in Zambia, including the iconic 1,800 km Tazara Railway. He also announced a $1.4 billion investment to modernize Tazara and procure new locomotives, which will enable daily bulk cargo shipments.
Mr. Lias credited recent bilateral agreements between Zambia and China for fostering these investments, following President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to Beijing.
