Chipata Breaks Ground on 100MW Solar Plant to Boost Energy Supply
The government has broken ground on the Chipata West 100-megawatt (MW) solar power project, a landmark investment expected to ease electricity shortages and accelerate socio-economic development in Eastern Province and across Zambia.
Speaking at the ceremony in Chief Chinyaku’s chiefdom, Eastern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Dr Lewis Mwape delivered a speech on behalf of Energy Minister Makozo Chikote, describing the initiative as a “beacon of progress” under President Hakainde Hichilema’s New Dawn Government. The launch follows the commissioning of a similar 100MW solar facility in Chisamba less than two months ago.
“This project will provide clean electricity to surrounding communities, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and mitigate the impact of climate change. It is a true demonstration of our President’s vision for a fully electrified Zambia where solar plays a central role,” Dr Mwape read.
The project is part of the government’s Solar Explosion initiative, designed to expand renewable energy generation, enhance access to clean power, and reduce Zambia’s carbon footprint. ZESCO has already rolled out projects in Chisamba and Serenje, with similar facilities planned nationwide.
Key reforms underpinning the sector’s growth were also highlighted, including the Net Metering Regulations of 2024, which have enabled 190 customers to feed 10MW of surplus solar into the grid, and the Electricity Open Access Regulations of July 2024, opening the market to private participation. The Energy Single Licensing System has further streamlined approvals for new projects.
The government has also prioritised affordability through the National Electricity Advancement Transformation (NEAT) programme, which has reduced connection fees from K4,864 to K300, with the Rural Electrification Authority covering the balance. “This means many families and small businesses who could not previously afford power will now switch on their lights,” Dr Mwape added.
ZESCO Chief Operations Officer Peter Chamfya reaffirmed the utility’s commitment to renewable energy scale-up, confirming collaboration with private sector partners, including China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC), to deliver the Chipata West project within 12 months. The plant will support households, schools, health facilities, and businesses in Eastern Province.
Chief Chinyaku, in his vote of thanks, welcomed the investment and job opportunities it promises, especially for young people. He urged residents to guard against vandalism of infrastructure, stressing that such actions would undermine development meant to uplift local communities.
