$519 Million Solar Power Plant Planned for Mpongwe
Mpongwe to Host $519 Million Solar Power Project as Zambia Expands Renewable Energy Capacity
Mpongwe District in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province is set to become home to a major renewable energy project following plans to develop a 500-megawatt (MW) solar power plant valued at approximately US$519 million.
The project will be developed by EnerSynk Solar Energy Limited in the Kashitu area under the leadership of Chieftainess Malembeka.
Covering around 615 hectares, the development will be rolled out in three phases over an estimated period of 18 months.
District Commissioner Mwambashi Mwitwa announced the project during a District Development Coordinating Committee meeting, describing it as a transformative investment for the local economy.
The development is expected to create more than 1,000 direct jobs, with a particular focus on employment opportunities for young people while stimulating business activity across the district.
According to Mr. Mwitwa, the project represents a significant investment that will not only generate employment but also support economic growth and community development in Mpongwe.
Strengthening Zambia’s Energy Security
The planned solar facility will contribute 500MW of renewable energy to Zambia’s national grid through a connection to the Kabwe-Kitwe 330-kilovolt transmission line.
Once operational, it will play an important role in improving electricity supply reliability and supporting the country’s growing energy demand.
The project aligns with the government’s Grow Zambia Agenda and supports national efforts to increase electricity generation capacity to 10,000MW.
It also forms part of Zambia’s broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependence on hydropower, which can be vulnerable to droughts and fluctuating water levels.
With an expected operational lifespan of 25 years, the solar plant will provide a long-term source of clean energy while strengthening the country’s resilience against power shortages.
Project Backed by Regulatory Approvals
The development gained momentum after receiving approvals from the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) and the Attorney-General’s office in July.
A key milestone was reached on September 15, 2026, when EnerSynk Group and ZESCO Limited signed a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), paving the way for construction to proceed.
EnerSynk Solar Energy Limited, incorporated in Zambia in August 2025, is part of the Hungary-based EnerSynk Group, with EnerSynk Holdings Mauritius Limited serving as its holding company.
Once completed, the Mpongwe solar power project is expected to become one of Zambia’s most significant renewable energy investments.
Beyond enhancing electricity supply, the development is set to create jobs, attract further investment, support local businesses, and contribute to the country’s transition toward a more diversified and sustainable energy sector.
