- Using existing infrastructure, Grid Africa and TCL Solar partner to deploy battery-backed solar systems in Zambia and Zimbabwe.
- Projects target mining and rural communities, aiming to reduce power outages and reliance on central utilities.
- TCL Solar will supply TOPCon solar modules, while Grid Africa will drive implementation through hybrid and decentralised solutions.
Grid Africa and TCL Solar have deployed distributed solar systems with battery storage in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Both companies aim to address the persistent power shortages crippling the two Southern African nations.
The companies plan to use existing transmission and distribution networks to lower costs and accelerate implementation. Grid Africa will lead the deployment efforts, while TCL Solar will supply advanced photovoltaic equipment and manage logistics.
The partners want to reduce dependence on centralised utilities by promoting decentralised energy systems. They intend to deliver reliable power to industrial zones and underserved rural communities.
Zambia and Zimbabwe recently introduced reforms supporting the private sector’s involvement in energy generation. These policies now allow independent power producers (IPPS) to access the national grid, enabling the rollout of more flexible energy models.
TCL Solar will provide solar modules that suit high-radiation environments. The company will use tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) technology to improve efficiency and performance. It will also coordinate logistics to ensure the timely delivery of equipment to remote sites.
Grid Africa has already begun implementation. The company signed a deal with Huawei in Zimbabwe to develop a 72-megawatt solar plant. This plant will supply electricity to the mining sector, which suffers frequent power disruptions.
In Zambia, Grid Africa has launched hybrid systems that combine solar panels, batteries, and backup generators. These systems aim to stabilise the energy supply and reduce reliance on unstable grid power.
Grid Africa CEO Norman Moyo described the shift as a breakthrough. “We can move away from utility dependence,” he said. “Like mobile phones transformed telecoms in Africa, distributed energy can revolutionise the power sector.”
The companies will use the current infrastructure to fast-track the rollout. Instead, they will avoid building new grid assets and focus on modular systems that can serve both urban industries and rural settlements.
The project aligns with a broader Southern African energy strategy. The companies plan to replicate this model in other countries facing similar electricity challenges. They hope to use their success in Zambia and Zimbabwe as a blueprint for future projects.
The distributed model continues to gain momentum as state utilities struggle to meet demand. Widespread blackouts hurt economic growth and disrupt essential services. To tackle the crisis, many African countries now pursue decentralised power solutions.
This partnership also supports global climate goals. By combining solar energy with battery storage, the companies aim to cut carbon emissions and reduce diesel generator use.
Grid Africa and TCL Solar believe their collaboration will drive economic development. Reliable power will support productivity, attract investment, and improve living standards, especially in off-grid communities.
The companies plan to start installations later this year. They will prioritise areas with urgent power needs. Their success will depend on local support, strong regulation, and efficient coordination.
As power demand grows across Africa, distributed energy systems offer a clear path to energy security. This partnership could help shape how the region meets its future energy needs.