- Chisamba Solar Plant is 91% complete and will add 100MW to Zambia’s grid, easing a 750MW national power deficit.
- Stanbic Bank financed the $71.5 million project, which was led by ZESCO’s KNBEPC and built by PowerChina to meet First Quantum Minerals’ energy needs.
- The project created over 200 local jobs and highlights growing private-sector investment in Zambia’s renewable energy sector.
The Chisamba Solar Power Plant has reached 91% completion as developers push to ease Zambia’s persistent energy deficit. With 100 megawatts (MW) in capacity, the $71.5 million facility represents one of the country’s most significant private energy projects.
Kariba North Bank Extension Power Corporation (KNBEPC), a subsidiary of ZESCO, leads the project. Stanbic Bank Zambia, part of the Standard Bank Group, provided full financing. PowerChina International Group Limited began construction in June 2024 and continues to manage all building activities.
Zambia’s Ministry of Energy estimates the country’s power shortfall at 750MW as of May 2024. KNBEPC designed the Chisamba plant to reduce this gap by feeding solar-generated electricity directly into the national grid.
GreenCo Power Services signed a 13-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to buy all the energy from the plant. The company, known for energy trading in Zambia, will supply the power to First Quantum Minerals (FQM). FQM runs high-energy mining operations that drive much of Zambia’s economic output.
The project directly addresses FQM’s electricity needs. By securing a steady supply for the mining firm, ZESCO can redirect additional capacity to homes and smaller industries.
Frequent load-shedding has disrupted the lives of Zambians and slowed economic progress. The Chisamba plant aims to improve supply reliability and create a more stable environment for investors and communities.
During the construction phase, the project generated over 200 direct jobs. These roles helped inject income into the local economy and supported small businesses.
KNBEPC selected Central Province to ensure balanced development and spread economic benefits. The plant’s location also supports better energy access for underserved regions.
Private energy investments like Chisamba continue to attract attention from investors and policymakers. Many see the model as a key solution for Zambia’s energy crisis.
With Chisamba nearing completion, more players in the industrial and mining sectors may reconsider their energy strategies. The project proves that private-sector involvement can deliver results.
GreenCo and KNBEPC expect to finalise grid integration soon. Once connected, the plant will deliver clean electricity and reduce reliance on hydro sources affected by drought.
Zambia’s government supports the shift toward solar and other renewables. Officials believe projects like Chisamba will boost investor confidence and improve power supply resilience.
The success of Chisamba may accelerate policy changes and attract more energy deals. Several regions in Zambia face similar energy gaps and could benefit from similar initiatives.
The private sector continues to play a growing role in powering Zambia’s future. With Chisamba almost ready, Zambia moves closer to a stable, diversified, and reliable energy system.