- CEC commissions 136 MW Itimpi II Solar PV Plant in Kitwe at a cost of US$125.8 million.
- Project increases CEC’s total solar generation capacity to 230 MW and supports Zambia’s energy diversification strategy.
- More than 2,500 jobs created during construction, with over 95% of roles filled by Zambians.
The Copperbelt Energy Corporation Plc (CEC) has commissioned the 136 MW Itimpi II Solar PV Power Plant in Kitwe, marking a major milestone in Zambia’s transition toward a more diversified and resilient energy mix.
Developed over 14 months at a cost of US$125.8 million, the project increases CEC’s total solar generation portfolio from 94 MW to 230 MW. Funded through the company’s US$200 million Green Bond, Itimpi II is now the largest operational solar facility in Zambia and the third largest in Sub Saharan Africa.
The project reflects a broader strategic shift by Zambia to reduce its dependence on hydroelectric power, which has increasingly come under pressure from climate related disruptions and drought conditions affecting water levels.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on 30 April 2026, President Hakainde Hichilema said the project aligned directly with the country’s objective of increasing electricity generation capacity while strengthening energy security.
“This is a great day and another very important project that contributes directly to our objective of increasing electricity generation in Zambia,” he said.
The President stressed that energy diversification was critical for economic growth and export competitiveness, adding that the Government remained fully supportive of private sector investment in the energy sector.
CEC PLC Board Chairperson London Mwafulilwa described the project as evidence that Zambia is prepared to drive development through investment, partnerships and decisive action.
He said the project’s impact extended beyond infrastructure and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to working with government, communities and investors to build a more resilient economy.
CEC PLC Chief Executive Officer Owen Silavwe said the successful delivery of Itimpi II demonstrated the growing capabilities of the local workforce and renewable energy sector.
“Thousands of Zambians contributed their skills, effort and dedication to bring this project to life, turning ambition into a landmark of national progress,” he said.
The company said the project will offset approximately 101 MT of CO2 emissions annually while delivering significant economic benefits. During construction, the development created 2,568 jobs, with more than 95% of positions held by Zambians.
CEC also contracted 15 local companies and eight local consultants, including Copperbelt University, enabling around 1,000 local workers to gain specialised renewable energy skills and technical experience.
The financing structure behind the project has also attracted attention within Zambia’s financial sector. Securities and Exchange Commission Chief Executive Officer Philip Chitalu noted that CEC exceeded a national capital markets target of US$100 million by raising US$156 million through the Green Bond programme.
The achievement demonstrated the ability of Zambia’s domestic capital markets to finance large scale infrastructure projects without relying on sovereign debt, he said.
Mwindwa Siakalima, Chief Executive Officer of Stanbic Bank Zambia, commended CEC for strengthening the country’s electricity supply position, while Jacquiline Chishimba from the Public Private Dialogue Forum said the project directly supported national priorities around job creation, skills development and wealth generation.
Looking ahead, CEC plans to expand its solar generation portfolio to more than 500 MW by 2027. The company also intends to allocate remaining Green Bond proceeds toward Battery Energy Storage Systems to support the delivery of dispatchable renewable power.
The move is expected to strengthen grid reliability and position solar energy as a stable baseload alternative capable of supporting Zambia’s long term industrial and economic growth ambitions.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
