- UAE based investor signals plans for 500 megawatts of solar under Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative.
- Project to target rural electrification and strengthen transmission and distribution networks.
- Government reiterates 10,000 megawatt investment target to secure long term energy sustainability.
A delegation from SGC Investment LLC of the United Arab Emirates has announced plans to invest in a 500 megawatt solar power programme in Zambia, reinforcing growing international interest in the country’s energy sector reforms.
The delegation paid a courtesy call on Zambia’s Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, where it confirmed its intention to develop the project under the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative. The proposed solar capacity will be rolled out across multiple locations nationwide, with a focus on expanding electricity access in rural and underserved communities.
According to the company, the development will also prioritise local economic participation. Workers engaged on the project will receive a minimum monthly salary of K9,500, equivalent to approximately USD500, underscoring SGC Investment’s commitment to decent employment standards.
Welcoming the investment proposal, Mr Chikote commended the UAE firm for selecting Zambia as a strategic destination. He assured the delegation that the Ministry’s technical team would work closely with the company to facilitate project implementation.
The Minister highlighted ongoing reforms that have repositioned Zambia’s energy market as an attractive destination for regional and international capital. These include open access to the transmission network, a single licensing framework, and increased participation by independent power producers and electricity traders.
Zambia is targeting 10,000 megawatts of new power investments to secure long term energy sustainability and underpin industrial growth. In this context, the Minister also welcomed SGC Investment’s stated willingness to explore additional energy projects, as well as investments in transmission and distribution infrastructure to strengthen the national grid.
The delegation was led by Shaikh Humaid Abdulla Essa Abdulaziz Almualla, Chairman of SGC Investment and a member of the ruling family of the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain.
SGC Investment indicated that it is prepared to finance the solar development independently or enter into a strategic partnership. The company expressed confidence that its planned investments across generation, transmission, and distribution could contribute meaningfully to addressing Zambia’s current energy deficit.
The delegation reaffirmed its commitment to long term collaboration with Zambia’s energy sector as the country accelerates efforts to diversify and expand its power generation base.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
