“We Will Not Return to Load-Shedding,” Says Energy Minister
Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote, MP, has assured Zambians that the country will not return to prolonged periods of load-shedding, citing sustained investments in alternative energy sources that are now easing electricity supply challenges.
Mr Chikote said the diversification of the national energy mix, particularly through solar power, is strengthening energy security and improving resilience against climate-related shocks that have constrained hydropower generation in recent years.
He was speaking in Munali, Lusaka, at the ground-breaking ceremony of the 20 megawatt NRDC Solar Power Project, which includes a dedicated 2 megawatt grid-connected solar plant to supply the Natural Resources Development College (NRDC).
The Minister said the project demonstrates Government’s commitment to translating policy into tangible infrastructure that supports sustainable development. He added that while hydropower has served the country well for decades, climate variability has highlighted the urgency of diversifying energy sources, with solar energy emerging as a strategic pillar under the New Dawn Administration.
Mr Chikote said construction of the project, being undertaken by Taiho Limited, commenced in November 2025 and is expected to be completed by March 2026. He noted that the project aligns with the Integrated Resource Plan, the National Energy Policy and Zambia’s broader green growth and climate-resilient development agenda, while also reflecting strong bilateral relations between Zambia and Taiho.
He further commended the inclusion of a dedicated 2 megawatt solar facility for NRDC, saying it will provide reliable, clean and affordable power for teaching, research and agricultural productivity. The facility is also expected to position NRDC as a living laboratory and a centre of innovation.
ZESCO Limited Managing Director, Engineer Justin Loongo, described the project as a strong example of what strategic partnerships can deliver. He cited the collaboration between ZESCO, Kiyona Energy Limited, Taiho and NRDC as critical to unlocking investment, accelerating capacity addition and ensuring the efficient and responsible delivery of energy infrastructure.
“These partnerships demonstrate the convergence of private sector innovation, public sector oversight and academic excellence, which is essential for sustainable energy development,” Eng Loongo said.
Ministry of Agriculture Permanent Secretary, represented by Director Dr Chizumba Shepande, said the project will strengthen climate resilience programmes and elevate NRDC into a centre of excellence and a demonstration hub for renewable energy driven agricultural education.
He said the initiative will support learning, research and innovation, and contribute to improved agricultural productivity and national food security.
Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha said recent droughts had underscored the importance of energy security and sustainable development. He urged stakeholders to ensure energy projects are underpinned by sound and well-structured contracts that deliver value for money, safeguard national interests and promote long-term sustainability.
Munali Constituency Member of Parliament and Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Mike Mposha, MP, described the project as historic and transformative for the area.
He said the solar plant is being developed on land previously used as an illegal dumping site, noting that the project has already improved hygiene and environmental conditions.
Mr Mposha said the project will ensure uninterrupted learning, research and innovation at NRDC through a dedicated power supply, while also creating jobs, improving livelihoods and strengthening energy reliability in Munali Constituency.
He urged residents to protect the infrastructure from vandalism and commended the Ministry of Energy for its leadership during the recent load-shedding period.
