Zambia’s Ministry of Energy is making a passionate appeal for increased investments in sustainable electricity generation to bridge the country’s significant power deficit, exacerbated by climate-induced low water levels.
Speaking in Lusaka, Permanent Secretary Peter Mumba emphasized the government’s unwavering support for energy sector investments, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
This rallying call came during a pivotal meeting with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), a major player set to revolutionize Zambia’s energy landscape. CCECC is embarking on a transformative mission to develop two solar power plants in Nalolo and Lukulu districts of Western Province. These projects are projected to inject an impressive 600 megawatts into Zambia’s national grid, a substantial step towards energy sufficiency.
PS Mumba shed light on Zambia’s current electricity generation capacity, which stands at just 1,030 megawatts—less than half of the national demand exceeding 2,500 megawatts. He noted the contribution of Maamba Coal Mine, which currently provides 300 megawatts, with plans to double this capacity by 2027 through ongoing developments.
Welcoming CCECC’s commitment, Mumba applauded the company’s solar energy initiatives and its exploration of coal energy, calling them vital components in narrowing Zambia’s energy gap.
Jacques Lias, Managing Director of CCECC, underscored the company’s longstanding partnership with Zambia, dating back to its landmark construction of the 1,800-kilometer Tazara Railway. Lias also unveiled an ambitious $1.4 billion investment plan to modernize Tazara and acquire new locomotives, aimed at bolstering daily bulk cargo transportation.
Lias attributed these groundbreaking investments to the strengthened ties between Zambia and China, reinforced during President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent diplomatic mission to Beijing.
This renewed focus on sustainable energy and infrastructure underscores Zambia’s determination to diversify its energy sources and build a resilient energy ecosystem. The Ministry’s call serves as a wake-up call for investors to rally behind Zambia’s vision for a sustainable and energy-secure future.
