Zambia and Norway Seal Deal to Support Solar Energy Growth
The Government of the Republic of Zambia, through the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and with support from the Global Green Growth Institute’s Carbon Transaction Facility, has secured carbon finance under the Zambia–Norway Bilateral Agreement aimed at expanding solar energy generation and strengthening the national electricity grid.
At the centre of the initiative is the Carbon Feed-In Premium (CFIP) Programme, which will provide an additional financial incentive on existing tariffs for solar power supplied to the grid by independent power producers. The scheme is designed to reduce investment risks, improve project bankability, and make solar energy projects more commercially viable.
Under the agreement, the Kingdom of Norway will purchase carbon credits generated by participating projects over a ten-year period. After this period, the credits will contribute towards Zambia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, supporting the country’s long-term climate commitments.
Government officials say the programme is expected to unlock approximately US$400 million in investment, significantly scaling up renewable energy development while improving energy security across the country.
The initiative comes at a time when Zambia is working to diversify its energy mix following the impact of the 2023–2024 drought, which affected hydropower generation and highlighted the need for more resilient energy sources.
The Ministry of Green Economy and Environment said the CFIP will also encourage greater private sector participation in the renewable energy space, accelerating the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable power generation.
Government has expressed gratitude to the Kingdom of Norway for its continued partnership and confidence in Zambia’s climate and energy agenda, noting that implementation of the programme will prioritise transparency, value for money, and measurable emissions reductions.
Independent power producers have been encouraged to apply for participation in the CFIP, which is open from 1 April to 31 May 2026.
The Ministry says the programme represents a key step towards achieving Zambia’s renewable energy ambitions while supporting economic growth and climate resilience.
