• Zambia signs deal for 118 MWp solar plant in Southern Province.

• Project aims to diversify power mix and reduce hydropower risks.

• Solar expansion targets grid stability rather than emissions cuts.

Zambia’s Ministry of Energy on February 23 announced the signing of an Implementation Agreement with Goldenray Energy Limited to develop a 118 MWp solar power plant in Sinazongwe, in the Southern Province.

The agreement was signed by Permanent Secretary for Electricity Arnold Simwaba, while Goldenray Energy was represented by its managing director, Ajit Kumar Mishra, according to an official statement.

The plant is expected to begin supplying electricity in the first quarter of 2027. Authorities say the project will increase national generation capacity and strengthen energy security. The total cost and financing structure were not disclosed. Goldenray Energy, registered in Zambia, is backed by a Dubai-based investment fund.

 “The 118MW solar power plant is expected to begin supplying electricity by early 2027, contributing to increased generation capacity and supporting Government’s drive to expand renewable energy and strengthen national energy security,” the ministry said.

Diversifying a Hydropower-Heavy System

In Southern Africa, Zambia has emerged as one of the most active solar markets after South Africa. But the drivers differ.

In South Africa, solar development is largely aimed at reducing dependence on coal. In Zambia, the electricity system is already largely low-carbon. According to the World Bank, more than 80% of the country’s electricity generation in 2025 came from hydropower.

That reliance, however, leaves the system vulnerable to droughts and hydrological variability. Solar expansion is therefore intended to diversify the energy mix and improve system reliability rather than cut emissions.

As climate variability increases, Zambia’s strategy reflects a shift from decarbonization toward resilience — using solar energy to stabilize a grid long dependent on river flows.

Abdoullah Diop