- Zambia cuts solar project approval time to 48 hours to fast-track private sector investment and meet the 1,000mw solar target by 2025.
- Energy Minister Makozo Chikote urges traditional leaders to provide land and calls on investors to take advantage of the streamlined process.
- The move follows the 2024 drought-induced power crisis, highlighting the urgent need to diversify from hydropower to solar.
Zambia’s Ministry of Energy has cut the approval time for solar project applications from over six months to 48 hours.
This move aims to attract more private investment in renewable energy.
It supports the Presidential Directive to add 1,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power to the national grid by December 2025.
Energy Minister Hon. Makozo Chikote announced the new policy in Lusaka.
He said the government wants to create a transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly energy sector.
“We are removing the delays that slow down solar development,” Chikote said.
With faster approvals, investors can begin projects quickly.
This change will unlock more capital and boost solar deployment.
Chikote said the government will continue to simplify procedures for all energy projects.
He explained that quicker approvals lead to faster returns for investors and better power access for citizens.
The Ministry has launched a broader plan to attract renewable energy investors.
It includes clear policies, simpler procedures, and bankable power purchase agreements (PPAS).
These efforts reduce risk and make solar projects more profitable.
Chikote also called on local authorities and traditional leaders to support the solar push.
He asked them to provide land for solar energy projects.
“Land is crucial for project success,” he said.
He encouraged communities to work with developers to ensure quick implementation and shared benefits.
The Ministry pledged to support stakeholders with technical guidance.
Officials urged innovators and energy solution providers to present their proposals.
Chikote said the government welcomes collaboration to grow the electricity supply.
He stressed that private sector participation is key to reaching the 1,000mw solar target.
He invited local and international companies to invest in Zambia’s clean energy future.
“We need strong partnerships to build a resilient energy system,” he said.
Zambia still faces a power deficit made worse by the 2024 drought.
The drought disrupted hydropower generation and exposed the country’s energy vulnerability.
Widespread outages affected homes and businesses across the country.
Chikote said the crisis highlighted the need to diversify energy sources.
He identified solar energy as the best alternative to reduce reliance on hydropower.
Solar offers speed, cost-efficiency, and climate resilience.
The Ministry plans to use solar to improve electricity reliability and reduce emissions.
The government continues to push forward with bold steps to meet rising energy demand.
With the new 48-hour approval process, Zambia hopes to lead in solar energy across the region.
Chikote urged all stakeholders to act quickly and take advantage of the favourable investment climate.