Zambia’s Cooma Solar Plant Nears First Power as Phase One Targets December Commissioning
60MW Cooma Solar Project and Battery Storage Facility Set for Commissioning in Zambia by December 2026
Zambia is poised to add another major renewable energy asset to its national grid, with the first phase of the Cooma Solar Power Project expected to be commissioned before the end of December 2026.
The project’s initial phase comprises 60MW of solar generation capacity supported by a 20MW battery energy storage system (BESS), providing much-needed electricity to the national grid while strengthening energy security and supporting the country’s transition towards a more diversified energy mix.
The commissioning timeline was recently confirmed by National Assembly Speaker Nelly Mutti and separately reaffirmed by representatives of the project developers, underscoring the progress made on one of Zambia’s flagship renewable energy investments.
The Cooma Solar Project is being developed through a partnership between Turkish energy company YEO Teknoloji and Zambian independent power producer GEI Power Limited.
Once operational, the facility will supply electricity to ZESCO Limited under a long-term power purchase agreement.
The solar plant forms part of a broader 100MW renewable energy development, which is expected to play a key role in expanding Zambia’s generation capacity as the country works to address power shortages and reduce its dependence on hydropower, which has come under pressure from recurring drought conditions.
Located in Choma District, Southern Province, the project is also expected to deliver significant economic benefits through job creation, skills development and investment in local communities.
During construction, the development has created employment opportunities for residents while supporting government efforts to increase private-sector participation in the energy sector.
The inclusion of battery storage technology is particularly significant, as it will enhance grid stability and improve the reliability of solar-generated electricity by allowing excess energy to be stored and dispatched when needed.
The Cooma Solar Project is part of Zambia’s wider strategy to expand electricity generation through solar, hydro and other alternative energy sources.
The government has prioritised renewable energy investments as it seeks to meet growing demand from households, businesses, mining operations and industrial consumers.
Energy sector stakeholders view the project as an important contribution to Zambia’s long-term objective of increasing generation capacity, improving energy resilience and attracting further investment into renewable energy infrastructure.
With commissioning now in sight, the Cooma Solar Plant is set to become another milestone in Zambia’s evolving energy landscape and a key addition to the country’s renewable power portfolio.
