Zambia Commissions First 100MW Solar Plant to Power 90,000 Homes

Zambia has commissioned its first large-scale solar power facility, a 100-megawatt (MW) plant in Chisamba, marking a major milestone in the nation’s renewable energy ambitions. The $100 million project is expected to supply electricity to nearly 90,000 households while cutting an estimated 150,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually.

The Chisamba plant positions Zambia as host to the fifth-largest single solar facility in Africa and the third-largest in sub-Saharan Africa, following Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa. Beyond boosting electricity access, the project strengthens national energy security and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.

Chisamba is more than just an energy project; it is a commitment to economic growth, environmental sustainability, and regional energy stability.

With cost efficiency of about $1 million per megawatt, cheaper than comparable projects in North and Southern Africa, the plant is projected to achieve payback within 15–20 years. Its strategic importance also extends to cross-border electricity trade, potentially helping stabilize Southern Africa’s regional power grid.

Analysts note that the project carries significant industrial and social benefits by powering businesses, public institutions, and households, while also creating opportunities for job growth and industrial expansion.

While challenges remain in grid integration and maintenance, the Chisamba solar plant underscores Zambia’s intent to lead in clean energy adoption. The facility sets a benchmark for other African nations looking to expand renewable energy capacity and aligns with the continent’s broader climate transition goals.