Zambia Pushes Regional Energy Integration and Climate Resilience
Zambia has emphasised the critical importance of regional integration and climate resilience in energy planning at the 66th Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) Management Committee (MANCO) Meeting, held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre on 12 March 2026.
Opening on behalf of the Minister of Energy, Hon. Makozo Chikote, MP, the Permanent Secretary for Electricity, Eng. Arnold M. Simwaba, outlined Zambia’s broader energy strategy, noting that recent droughts have exposed the region’s vulnerability in power generation.
“Projects such as the Zambia–Tanzania Interconnector aim to link the Southern and Eastern African Power Pools, creating a market spanning from Cape Town to Cairo, a precursor to the African Single Electricity Market (AFSEM),” Eng. Simwaba said.
He also stressed the importance of off-grid, grid-ready solutions to increase electricity access, which averages around 50 per cent across the region.
Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC)’s Head of Business Development and Power Trading, Eng. Mulenga Bwalya, highlighted the pivotal role of transmission infrastructure in regional stability.
He cited recent expansions in the Zambia–DRC interconnector corridor, which increased transfer capacity from 210MW to 395MW, enhancing reliability and efficiency across the network.
Eng. Bwalya also praised progress on the Zambia–Tanzania Interconnector and reiterated CEC’s commitment to renewable energy development. The company is nearing completion of its third solar plant in Kitwe, which will bring its total solar capacity to approximately 230MW. Battery energy storage systems are also being integrated to stabilise the grid and improve renewable reliability.
While prioritising renewables, CEC continues to explore firm and dispatchable power sources to maintain a balanced and reliable energy mix. Eng. Bwalya emphasised that the operationalisation of Zambia’s Open Access Framework will support greater private sector participation and more efficient use of transmission infrastructure.
“CEC remains resolute in its mission to support Zambia’s energy security while contributing meaningfully to regional integration. We are ready to partner with government, utilities, and regional stakeholders to unlock new investment and power the region’s shared growth,” he concluded.
