• Government launches three major projects: two solar plants and a 330 kV line

• New capacity aims to ease pressure on a grid that gets about 90% of its power from dams

• Investments seek a more resilient mix to support the economy and the mining sector

Zambia has launched three major energy projects in its Southern Province, the region that hosts the country’s largest hydropower plants. On December 4 and 8, the government and the national utility Zesco broke ground on a 100 MW solar plant in Chirundu, a 35 MW solar plant in Choma, and a new 330 kV transmission line. These projects form part of the government’s plan to add 1,000 MW of solar capacity to reduce the vulnerability of the public power system.

Both solar plants are located in the same area as Kafue Gorge Upper, Kafue Gorge Lower, and Kariba North Bank—three historic hydropower dams that anchor national electricity generation. The choice of location is deliberate: Zambia relies on hydropower for about 90% of its electricity, according to the International Energy Agency. While this dependence has supported national supply for decades, it also exposes the grid to climate variability, especially droughts that lower reservoir levels and lead to generation shortfalls.

Against this backdrop, the state has accelerated efforts to add solar capacity, a clean energy source considered a fast and effective way to reinforce and complement hydropower. The Chirundu plant is expected to be completed within 10 months and create more than 600 jobs, while the Choma project—led by China Energy Engineering Group Hunan Electric Power Design Institute—is expected to generate about 300 jobs.

Critical for integrating new capacity, the 330 kV transmission line will also help carry electricity from upcoming thermal projects, including the planned 600 MW coal plant in Sinazongwe and the 300 MW expansion of the Mamba coal plant. Together, these initiatives aim to create a more balanced mix that combines renewable and thermal sources. Diversification is essential to strengthening the system’s resilience and supporting Zambia’s economy, particularly the mining sector, which depends on stable and reliable electricity supply.

Abdoullah Diop