Hichilema commissions CEC’s 126-MW solar plant, urges shift in energy project mindset

President Hakainde Hichilema on Tuesday commissioned a 126-megawatt solar power plant built by Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) in Kitwe, calling for a mindset shift in how power projects are executed in the country. CEC is developing the facility using proceeds from its debut US$200 million green bond and plans to add about 500 MW of solar capacity over the next three years. Speaking during the launch, Hichilema said the Itimpi II project was a milestone.

“This is a landmark project, your investments are safe, we will not close you but encourage you to grow bigger and better,” he said. He said his government was encouraging energy investments to support Zambia’s ambition of producing three million tonnes of copper annually. “Reaching three million tonnes will consume not less than 8,000 MW of power, so if you factor in other energy needs you find that we need to generate more power beyond 8,000 MW,” he said.

Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, Han Jing, said Beijing remained ready to support the country’s energy expansion efforts. “The Chinese Government will continue to support Chinese enterprises in contributing to Zambia’s goal of reaching 10 gigawatts of total installed capacity by 2030,” Jing said. CEC Board Chairperson, London Mwafulilwa, said Itimpi II was the largest single solar project in the country.

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Others who attended the commissioning included Mines and Mineral Development Minister, Paul Kabuswe, and Copperbelt Minister, Elisha Matambo, who described the project as a milestone. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.

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