• Stardust Solar Energy signed a 20-year power purchase agreement with Zambia’s state utility ZESCO for a 30-MW solar project.

• The contract fixes the electricity tariff at $0.07 per kilowatt-hour and could generate $60 million to $90 million in gross revenue.

• Zambia is accelerating solar investments to reduce heavy reliance on hydropower, which accounted for about 90% of electricity generation in 2023.

Canada-based Stardust Solar Energy announced on January 13, 2026, that it signed a 20-year power purchase agreement in Zambia for the development of a 30-megawatt photovoltaic solar power plant. The company concluded the agreement with ZESCO Limited, Zambia’s state-owned electricity utility, through its local subsidiary, Stardust Solar Zambia.

According to the statement, the contract sets a fixed electricity sale price of $0.07 per kilowatt-hour for the full 20-year term. Based on current production and demand assumptions, the project is expected to generate between $60 million and $90 million in gross contractual revenue over the life of the agreement.

Stardust Solar will finance the development and construction of the project and will provide engineering and technical supervision services. In return, the group will receive a fee equivalent to 50% of net energy revenues after the deduction of approved operating costs.

This announcement comes as Zambia accelerates solar investments to reduce its heavy dependence on hydropower. According to the International Energy Agency, hydropower accounted for about 90% of national electricity production in 2023, exposing the power system to elevated risks during drought periods.

Since 2025, several large-scale solar projects have been launched or have entered the operational phase across multiple provinces. These projects include 100-MW solar plants in Siavonga, Chisamba, and Chirundu, as well as mid-sized facilities in Choma and Mansa.

ZESCO Limited, its subsidiaries, and independent power producers are leading these developments, which aim to strengthen the reliability and security of Zambia’s national power supply.

This article was initially published in French by Abdoullah Diop

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum