President Hichilema Inaugurates 60 Megawatt Solar Plant in Kitwe to Combat Energy Crisis
In a significant move towards diversifying Zambia’s energy sector, President Hakainde Hichilema inaugurated the 60-megawatt Itimpi power project in Kitwe last week.
Developed by the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC), the project represents a pivotal step in the country’s efforts to increase investments in non-hydro-based power generation.
President Hichilema, who was on a five-day visit to the Copperbelt region, emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in sustaining such investments.
He urged entrepreneurial firms to capitalize on Zambia’s abundant sunlight by investing in solar energy, thereby contributing to a more resilient and diversified energy mix.
The timing of the Itimpi power project is particularly crucial as Zambia grapples with distressing load-shedding caused by erratic water levels at the Kariba dam.
With hydro-generation being heavily reliant on weather patterns, the President stressed the need for a diversified energy mix to mitigate the impact of such challenges.
“Investing in alternative energy sources, such as solar power, significantly contributes to mitigating the current power deficit in our country,” President Hichilema remarked. “Such efforts deserve our applause.”
The President underscored the importance of stable power supply in driving economic growth, particularly in key sectors like mining and agriculture.
He called for partnerships between the government and the private sector to invest in the entire power network, from generation to distribution, to ensure improved access to electricity.
CEC managing director Owen Silavwe highlighted the significance of the Itimpi power project in expanding Zambia’s renewable energy capacity. With a combined cost of US$75 million, the project represents a substantial investment directed towards clean energy initiatives.
London Mwafulilwa, the CEC board chairperson, emphasized the project’s positive impact on employment generation, with over 1,200 jobs created during the construction phase.
Minister of Energy Peter Kapala echoed the sentiment, praising the Itimpi power project as a testament to Zambia’s commitment to renewable energy development.
The inauguration of the Itimpi power project marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s energy transition journey. As the country seeks to reduce its dependence on hydroelectric power and harness its abundant solar resources, initiatives like these will play a crucial role in ensuring energy security, driving economic growth, and fostering sustainable development.
