Zambia Showcases Bold Energy Reforms at 2025 Energy Week Exhibitions in Mongu
Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to a sustainable and climate-resilient energy future with the launch of the 2025 Energy Week Exhibitions at Barotse Mall in Mongu. The week-long event, held under the theme “Advancing Towards a Sustainable Energy Future”, was officially opened by Western Province Minister Kapelwa Mbangweta, MP, on behalf of the Minister of Energy, Hon. Makozo Chikote, MP.
In his keynote address, Hon. Mbangweta emphasized the government’s ongoing reforms and investments aimed at diversifying energy sources, promoting clean energy, and enhancing national energy resilience in the face of climate change and prolonged droughts.
“These exhibitions come at a time when Zambia is boldly implementing critical energy reforms and infrastructure investments to ensure long-term energy security,” he stated.
Zambia’s adaptation measures have been accelerated following the 2023/24 drought-induced load shedding. Among the flagship initiatives is the net metering rollout, allowing homes and businesses to install solar systems and earn financial credit by feeding excess power into the national grid. Currently, ZESCO Limited is offering 1,000 free installations under a promotional campaign.
Other transformative reforms include the Open Access Framework, which permits independent power producers (IPPs) to supply electricity directly to consumers, and the Single Licensing System, aimed at streamlining project approvals.
Hon. Mbangweta cited the commissioning of the 100 MW Chisamba Solar Power Plant as a key milestone and reaffirmed the government’s goal to deliver 1,000 MW of solar energy by December 2025. Western Province is contributing to this target through initiatives like the 24 kVA rooftop solar system at Kaoma District Hospital, funded by the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
Private sector involvement is also growing, with the Ilute 32 MW Solar Power Plant in Sesheke under development.
The Minister also highlighted changes in the petroleum subsector, notably the transformation of the TAZAMA Pipeline, which now carries finished products rather than crude oil, stabilizing pump prices and improving diesel availability. A feasibility study is underway to upgrade the pipeline into a multi-product corridor capable of transporting petrol and other refined fuels.
Efforts to promote clean cooking technologies, including the use of LPG and improved biomass stoves, are also being prioritized to reduce deforestation and improve public health outcomes, especially for rural women and children.
The Energy Week commemorations extend beyond exhibitions, with schools and colleges across Western Province hosting energy awareness lectures and career talks. The outreach aims to inspire youth engagement in renewable energy and sustainability.
Hon. Mbangweta thanked key partners supporting the event, including the European Union’s ZEEST Project, ILO, Energy Regulation Board (ERB), and Lloyds Financials.
“The story of Zambia’s energy sector in 2025 is one of reform, resilience, and rising momentum,” Hon. Mbangweta said. “Together, we are moving from policy to implementation, from challenges to sustainable solutions.”
The 2025 Energy Week Exhibitions feature live demonstrations, public forums, and stakeholder dialogues throughout the week.
