Zambia to Avoid Prolonged Load-Shedding as Solar Investments Boost Power Supply
Zambia Will Not Return to Extended Load-Shedding, Says Energy Minister as Solar Projects Expand
Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote, MP, has assured Zambians that the country will not return to prolonged periods of load-shedding, citing sustained investments in alternative energy sources that are easing electricity supply challenges.
Mr Chikote said the diversification of Zambia’s energy mix particularly through solar power is strengthening national energy security and improving resilience to climate-related shocks that have constrained hydropower generation in recent years.
He was speaking in Munali, Lusaka, during the ground-breaking ceremony of the 20-megawatt NRDC Solar Power Project, which includes a dedicated 2-megawatt grid-connected solar plant to supply the Natural Resources Development College (NRDC).
The Minister said the project demonstrates the Government’s commitment to translating policy into tangible infrastructure that supports sustainable development.
He noted that while hydropower has served the country well for decades, climate variability has highlighted the urgent need to diversify energy sources, with solar energy emerging as a strategic pillar under the New Dawn Administration.
Mr Chikote said construction of the project, being undertaken by Taiho Limited, commenced in November 2025 and is expected to be completed by March 2026.
He added that the project aligns with the Integrated Resource Plan, the National Energy Policy and Zambia’s broader green growth and climate-resilient development agenda, while also reflecting strong bilateral cooperation between Zambia and Taiho.
He further commended the inclusion of a dedicated 2-megawatt solar facility for NRDC, saying it will provide reliable, clean and affordable electricity for teaching, research and agricultural productivity.
The facility is also expected to position NRDC as a living laboratory and a centre of innovation in renewable energy.
ZESCO Limited Managing Director, Engineer Justin Loongo, described the project as a strong example of what strategic partnerships can deliver.
He cited collaboration among ZESCO, Kiyona Energy Limited, Taiho Limited and NRDC as critical to unlocking investment, accelerating capacity addition and ensuring the efficient and responsible delivery of energy infrastructure.
“These partnerships demonstrate the convergence of private sector innovation, public sector oversight and academic excellence, which is essential for sustainable energy development,” Eng Loongo said.
Ministry of Agriculture Permanent Secretary, represented by Director Dr Chizumba Shepande, said the project will strengthen climate resilience programmes and elevate NRDC into a centre of excellence and demonstration hub for renewable energy-driven agricultural education.
He said the initiative will enhance learning, research and innovation while contributing to improved agricultural productivity and national food security.
Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha said recent droughts have underscored the importance of energy security and sustainable development.
He urged stakeholders to ensure that energy projects are supported by sound and well-structured contracts that deliver value for money, protect national interests and promote long-term sustainability.
Munali Constituency Member of Parliament and Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Mike Mposha, MP, described the project as historic and transformative for the area.
He noted that the solar plant is being developed on land previously used as an illegal dumping site, adding that the project has already improved hygiene and environmental conditions in the community.
Mr Mposha said the project will ensure uninterrupted learning, research and innovation at NRDC through a dedicated power supply, while also creating jobs, improving livelihoods and strengthening energy reliability in Munali Constituency.
He urged residents to protect the infrastructure from vandalism and commended the Ministry of Energy for its leadership during the recent load-shedding period.
