Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote has launched the construction of the phase two 100 megawatts Solar Power Plant in Chisamba District in Central Province at a cost of US$70 million. Speaking during the ground breaking ceremony for phase two of the Solar Power project which is part of a broader initiative to end load shedding in the country, Mr Chikote said the expansion project is a clear demonstration of the government’s unwavering commitment towards transforming Zambia’s energy sector. “We are advancing a strategic agenda that places energy as a key driver of the country’s economic development.
We have over the years depended on hydropower but because of climate change, we have decided to come up with solar energy to address electricity challenges the country has been facing,” he said. Mr Chikote said the project is part of the policies the government has put in place to transform Zambia into a net exporter of electricity in the country. He said the investments have nothing to do with the 2026 general elections but are part of the government’s robust programme to end load shedding and boost the country’s power generation capacity.
He said the government will continue investing in other alternative sources of energy such as solar, coal and wind to increase the country’s power generation capacity. “Energy is a critical enabler of economic development. ZESCO and Power China should prioritise local human resources by employing the people of Chisamba,” Mr Chikote said.
Read Full Article on Lusaka Times
[paywall]
He further urged the media to effectively report on all projects being undertaken across the country to ensure citizens are fully aware of what is being done towards ending load shedding. “I wish to call for more Public Private Partnership in the implementation of developmental projects. The Chisamba phase two solar project stands as a strong symbol of progress,” he said.
Central Province Permanent Secretary, Milner Mwanakampwe said the Chisamba power project is a strategic and timely investment aimed at making load shedding a thing of the past. Power China Project Manager, Song Mingi said the US$70 million investment into the second phase of the project is an indication that the company is happy with Zambia’s investment environment.
[/paywall]
