- ZESCO SPV, Kariba North Bank Extension Power Corporation Limited (KNBEPC), will invest US$102 million in the construction of the first 100MW of a total of 200MW solar PV project located in Kafungalubala village in Chisamba district, Central Province.
Speaking at a groundbreaking ceremony at Kaungalubala grounds earlier this month, Zesco Limited Board Chairman, Vickson Ncube, said that the Government under the new dawn administration aims to transform Zambia into a middle-income country by 2031 as it recognizes the critical role of economic drivers, starting with the energy sector. However, he reiterated that, like many other countries, Zambia’s energy sector faces significant hydrological challenges due to climate change. These challenges impact the country’s ability to provide stable and reliable electricity, which is essential for economic growth. Zambia’s water allocation for electricity production at Kariba Dam has been almost halved this year due to drought. Read more
Related news: ZESCO has unsustainable debt of US$ 3.5 billion
He says the deployment of a 100MW solar project is a strategic move away from over-dependence on hydroelectricity and towards a more sustainable, resilient energy future.
Related news: Pilot Zambian debt relief collapses
And KNBEPC Board Chairperson Eng. Victor Mapani pointed out that the project is internally funded, highlighting the focus on financial sustainability and independence from overpriced power purchase agreements that have historically burdened the company.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
