Maamba Launches 100 MW Solar Project in Major Shift Towards Clean Energy

Maamba Solar Energy Limited has commenced construction of a 100 megawatt (MW) solar power plant in Maamba, Southern Province, marking a significant step in diversifying Zambia’s energy mix and reducing dependence on hydropower.

The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by the Minister of Energy, Hon. Makozo Chikote, MP, who described the project as “game-changing” for the nation’s energy sector.

“Maamba Solar Energy Limited have responded to the vision to restore stability in the energy sector and improve our energy mix,” Hon. Chikote said. “Zambia depended so much on hydro and when this drought hit us, this administration was able to think outside the box. We started by exploring other alternative sources of energy such as the one we are doing today here at Maamba.”

The Minister added that the government has lined up a series of solar projects to ensure Zambia never again experiences crippling load-shedding. “That’s how we have planned our energy mix and we will continue addressing the power deficit both in the immediate, medium and long term,” he explained.

The Maamba solar facility, expected to be completed by mid-2026, will inject 100 MW of clean power into the national grid. Together with Maamba Energy’s Phase II thermal expansion—set to increase capacity to 600 MW—the town of Maamba will contribute 700 MW of electricity to Zambia’s supply by next year.

Maamba Solar Energy Director, Ashwin Devineni, said the initiative highlighted the company’s long-term commitment to Zambia’s energy transition. “This 100 MW solar project is a critical step in diversifying Zambia’s energy mix and supporting the government’s ambition to add 1,000 MW of solar capacity to the national grid,” he said.

The project forms part of the government’s Mission 300 – Universal Access to Power, which aims to add 1,000 MW of renewable energy capacity to the grid.

Officials noted that the solar development will play a vital role in cushioning the economy against climate shocks and changing weather patterns. It will deploy advanced bifacial solar modules with high efficiency, symbolising Zambia’s shift towards renewable energy, a reduced carbon footprint and sustainable growth.

“Our interest is to ensure that electricity reaches every Zambian household while supporting economic growth,” Hon. Chikote emphasised.