Zambia to Add 320MW of Solar Power Before Year-End
Zambia Set to Commission 320MW of New Solar Capacity as Renewable Energy Expansion Accelerates
Zambia is expected to commission three new solar power plants with a combined capacity of 320MW before the end of the year, marking another significant step toward strengthening the country’s energy security and expanding renewable power generation.
According to the Ministry of Energy, the projects form part of broader efforts to diversify the national energy mix and reduce dependence on hydropower, which has been increasingly affected by climate-related challenges and fluctuating water levels.
Among the projects scheduled for commissioning is the 100MW Chipata West Solar Plant in Eastern Province.
Construction of the facility began in August 2025 and is expected to contribute significantly to electricity supply in the region upon completion.
A second 100MW solar plant is being developed in Shimabala, located in Chilanga District.
The project is expected to add valuable generation capacity to the national grid and support growing electricity demand from households, businesses and industry.
The largest of the three developments is a 120MW solar facility in Mumbwa District, Central Province.
The district has emerged as a key renewable energy hub, attracting substantial investment in utility-scale solar projects aimed at supporting Zambia’s long-term power sector growth.
The planned commissioning comes amid rapid growth in Zambia’s solar energy sector. Installed solar capacity has expanded dramatically over the past two years as government and private investors accelerate efforts to address electricity shortages and improve energy resilience.
Zambia’s total installed electricity generation capacity currently stands at approximately 4,722MW, with the government targeting 10,000MW by 2031.
The addition of 320MW from the three solar projects is expected to support this goal while helping to improve power reliability across the country.
Officials have also reported continued interest from independent power producers, with new applications still being submitted, including proposals from developers that have already secured power purchase agreements with ZESCO.
The growing pipeline of private-sector investments highlights increasing confidence in Zambia’s renewable energy market and its potential to play a central role in the country’s future energy landscape.
The commissioning of these projects is expected to strengthen electricity supply, support economic growth and advance Zambia’s transition toward a more sustainable and diversified power system.
