• Zambia signs PPA for 100 MW hybrid wind-solar project
• Project supports diversification away from hydropower dependence
• Expansion of renewables aims to improve supply reliability

Zambia has signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) for a 100 MW hybrid wind and solar project, the Ministry of Energy said on Saturday.

The deal, between DZGM Energy Resources and state utility Zesco Limited, will feed electricity into the national grid. Energy Minister Makozo Chikote, who attended the signing ceremony, highlighted the need to expand generation and improve supply reliability.

Zambia’s power system relies heavily on hydropower, which accounts for more than 80% of output, according to the National Energy Compact. This dependence leaves the country vulnerable to climate shocks. A drought in 2024 sharply reduced generation, straining supply for several months.

In response, authorities have been expanding solar capacity to strengthen energy security. In September 2025, Africa GreenCo and Serenje Energy signed a preliminary agreement for the 25 MW Lusanje solar plant. In late January, the Natural Resources Development College inaugurated a 20 MW solar project in Lusaka. In February, the Ministry of Energy signed an implementation agreement with Goldenray Energy for a 118 MWp solar plant in Sinazongwe, Southern Province.

The DZGM project is part of Zambia’s strategy, outlined in its 2024 Integrated Resource Plan, to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on hydropower.

By combining wind and solar, the project is expected to smooth power output throughout the day and limit fluctuations linked to a single source.

However, as variable renewables expand, the grid will require upgrades to handle rising demand and intermittent supply.

Abdoullah Diop