Ministry of Energy Targets 1,000MW Boost by December Under Presidential Directive
The Ministry of Energy has unveiled a strategic plan to deliver 1,000 megawatts (MW) of additional electricity to Zambia’s national grid by December 2025, following a directive from President Hakainde Hichilema.
Speaking at the 59th Zambia International Trade Fair in Ndola, Engineer Arnold Simwaba, Permanent Secretary for Electricity, confirmed that a portfolio of power projects, spanning solar, hydro, and thermal technologies has been identified and is being fast-tracked in collaboration with public and private sector partners.
“These projects are at various stages of implementation, with several expected to be commissioned before year-end,” said Eng. Simwaba. “Our goal is to improve energy security and close the supply gap that continues to affect households and industries.”
He emphasized the importance of diversifying Zambia’s energy mix to reduce overdependence on hydropower, which has proven vulnerable to climate change impacts. The Ministry is prioritizing integration of solar and wind to enhance the sector’s resilience and ensure stable power supply.
On petroleum developments, Eng. Simwaba revealed plans to construct a second pipeline from Dar es Salaam for transporting petrol, under the Tazama Open Access Framework. Currently, only diesel is conveyed via the pipeline, while petrol is transported by road.
He noted that the open access model had already lowered diesel prices through competition and that expanding it to petrol would improve supply security, reduce logistics costs, and lessen wear on road infrastructure.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing transparent and investor-friendly energy policies to support affordable and reliable access to power for all Zambians.
The Ministry is showcasing its energy transformation agenda at the Trade Fair alongside key statutory bodies, including the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) and Tazama Pipelines Limited.
