ERB Approves 29 Energy Licences and Five Construction Permits Worth ZMW 2.45 Billion
The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has approved 29 licence applications and five construction permits across the petroleum, electricity and renewable energy sub-sectors, representing a total investment commitment of ZMW 2.45 billion (approximately US$130 million).
The approvals were granted by the Board’s Licensing Committee at its meeting held on 13 February 2026 and underscore continued investor confidence in Zambia’s energy sector. The ERB said the decision also reflects its commitment to maintaining a transparent, predictable and efficient regulatory environment.
According to the regulator, the approved licences comprise 12 for the manufacture, supply, installation and maintenance of renewable energy generating equipment; 12 for the distribution, importation and exportation of petroleum products; one for the combined generation, distribution and supply of electricity; and four for the importation, packaging, blending, distribution and export of lubricants.
In addition, 137 road tank vehicles have been licensed to strengthen petroleum transportation capacity.
The ERB further approved five construction permits, including a 60 megawatt-peak (MWp) solar photovoltaic power plant with a 5MW/20MWh battery energy storage system. The Board also authorised 11 liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) filling plants and permitted newly constructed service stations to commence operations, a move expected to improve energy access and service delivery nationwide.
The regulator said the approvals are intended to stimulate economic activity through increased capital investment and expanded infrastructure, while reinforcing regulatory certainty and policy stability for investors. Consumers, it added, stand to benefit from improved reliability of energy services and more affordable pricing.
In a statement, ERB Public Relations Manager Namukolo Kasumpa said the Board would continue to make timely and responsible regulatory decisions that promote competition, growth and long-term sustainability in Zambia’s energy markets.
“The ERB remains committed to supporting a resilient and inclusive energy sector that contributes meaningfully to national development,” she said.
