ZDA and Sunshare Energy Seal USD246 Million Deal to Expand 350MW Solar Power Project in Mumbwa
The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) and Sunshare Energy Limited (SEL) have signed a USD246 million Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) to expand the Nambala Solar Power Plant in Mumbwa, marking a major boost to Zambia’s renewable energy drive.
The agreement covers phase two of the project, which will add 250MW to the existing solar facility. This follows phase one, a 100MW plant valued at USD54 million, bringing the total installed capacity to 350MW and cumulative investment to approximately USD300 million.
ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa welcomed the expansion, describing it as aligned with government’s broader ambition to increase national electricity generation capacity from 3,800MW to 10,000MW.
He said strengthening energy production remains central to unlocking growth across key sectors including mining, infrastructure and tourism, all of which depend on a stable and reliable power supply.
Mr Halwampa further noted that government reforms have significantly reduced approval timelines for energy investments, improving Zambia’s attractiveness as a destination for large-scale infrastructure projects.
He also highlighted rising electricity demand driven by plans to expand copper production to three million tonnes annually, stressing that this creates opportunities not only for domestic consumption but also for regional power trading through the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP).
Sunshare Energy Assistant Director Bin Chen said the additional investment is expected to generate both short- and long-term employment opportunities, including around 120 jobs during the construction phase and approximately 240 permanent positions once operational.
Mr Chen added that securing the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement was a key milestone for the company, as it strengthens investor confidence and provides the stability required for further capital deployment.
He noted that the project signals Zambia’s readiness to host large-scale renewable energy investments and supports the country’s target of achieving 10,000MW in power generation by 2031.
